OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

Birmingham City Council Meeting - May 5, 2026: Proclamations, Zoning Change, and Public Safety Ordinance

City CouncilTuesday, May 5, 2026
BodyBirmingham, Alabama
SessionCity Council
DateTuesday, May 5, 2026
StatusFILED
Video Record

STREAMING COPY IN PREPARATION — RECORDING AVAILABLE FROM THE ORIGINAL SOURCE

Transcript — Verbatim
1:10

Well, I wore my hair short before, but it's probably a little boring.

1:16

Yeah, you look more than two.

1:23

I don't think it's no one.

1:36

He's such a mean thing, such an amazing purple name.

1:40

You know, this is such a great guy.

1:49

And I'm so glad they're injured.

2:12

Yeah, and so when we're saying shortcuts afterwards, and then I'll try to dish it for private practice, but he could have found all the things that I needed to try and dish it out.

2:24

I was on the instant supervisor and mentors.

2:39

He didn't see his own.

2:42

He was on Facebook for a while, so he was able to keep up with what I was doing for a while.

2:47

And I talked to Janita, she still built me out.

2:50

She doesn't work for my husband.

2:53

Yeah, yes, that was for you a part during the church.

2:56

That was definitely the last change.

3:01

And sometimes changes.

3:05

Where did I make it?

3:13

Okay, yeah, I'm familiar.

3:14

Wow.

3:17

Okay, yeah, they have a huge house.

3:25

But the water, yes.

3:31

I know.

3:32

And then they have the little train say that either the Christmas bill.

3:37

She would put it back in summer.

3:44

She's still doing that.

3:46

How often do you see the I just almost miss her amazing life?

4:03

So I just had your sister.

4:12

She's a great VA, but she works for my bees.

4:15

She's called so she's the outside.

4:24

She reminds me of when I was at the Lord, you know, she seems really she had a really great work in a great personality.

4:35

She was like, Yes, I think I think I think it's your hunting.

4:48

Yeah, it is this I think she's a man's time to line up the lineup and the universal ball again.

5:11

Yes, we're gonna see.

5:18

Oh my god.

5:21

Okay.

5:23

Well thanks for asking you.

5:30

Good morning.

5:31

How are you doing?

5:52

These are some about our first.

5:55

Yeah.

5:55

June.

5:59

Oh, so my dear resemblance.

6:07

I go back in the case.

6:13

You have made me five.

6:15

You don't like it.

6:18

Yes, yes.

6:22

So that's the good.

6:42

Yeah.

6:47

From our group.

6:47

Yeah.

6:48

I think which are working.

6:50

Yeah.

6:50

Oh, you know what?

6:52

Which unit did you work?

6:54

Nine four.

6:56

No, what?

6:58

I was the um WLC nurse.

7:02

For a long time.

7:04

And then I went to Brian Trop.

7:06

There's the case manager.

7:08

And when I left, I was the coordinator soldiers.

7:14

Okay.

7:16

I never worked.

7:17

I think when I first started in the nineties.

7:23

Okay, so in the nineties when you first had WC and that's what I was doing.

7:29

Yeah.

7:30

But that's good.

7:31

I never worked on the full.

7:34

It doesn't you know that we're just it they have got it.

7:49

Who's that dog done?

7:54

I guess so.

7:55

I guess I'm uh curious about the case of an album.

7:59

That's special.

8:00

I don't know why it's doctor uses the uh we're all kind of uh E and T for the trunk.

8:23

And the legs we just eat all the meal and like hang these.

8:28

And then we just have a follow up and just both you know, so uh we use a lot of uh then I love that you don't want magazines and uh charm where they usually know just that on there she's got all the way.

8:54

Oh just and uh and she don't like purple she does um do my car share share on my car.

9:19

I maybe she on the car should she have any she is the car yeah.

9:29

So she's a purple she does have her.

10:05

And then the next option basically won't be generalized.

10:37

Just let the second situation.

10:51

Oh, I think you see.

10:55

Right.

11:00

And then just bring them one number, thank you.

12:18

I apologize.

12:20

Um I see Dr.

12:23

Rogers.

12:23

I hope it's right here.

12:24

I've got your drive.

12:27

Maria is probably going to be talking, but she's off the screen.

12:31

So I just wanted to kind of rotate.

12:33

So uh Nicole is Nicole.

12:36

We've talked on the email.

12:40

Um so uh I think this PEC and Crystal Mullen Johnson.

12:46

Hello.

12:46

How are you doing?

12:47

It's good to see you.

12:48

Yeah, absolutely.

12:50

And um anybody else here for small business week or historic preservation?

12:56

Okay, that's good.

12:58

That's I just want to double check because that's city staff.

13:00

But um thanks for being here.

13:02

Uh when the mayor starts, it's kind of a long one today.

13:05

Uh the order will be um uh mental health awareness is oral preservation, uh small business will be uh uh Lucas awareness and uh nurses meeting.

13:18

Uh so what the mayor will do is when it speaks um he'll uh when he gets to particular topic, uh then should that uh next few people um they'll just call for you or you and any guests that won't come up with them and y'all can come up there.

13:36

We just asked for expectations when it's a lot of people like the three text key comments for about three minutes or last possible.

13:43

Uh expected yes.

13:47

And sometimes not always, but sometimes the uh council will make some comments.

13:52

And so when they uh so they may dispute the welcome to stand there until you know if they want to say something or ask a question or something like that.

14:00

Um but uh and then afterwards uh long as it's possible, which is shouldn't be possible.

14:08

We'll have some of our team photographs or mayor.

14:14

And then you step out and we'll say uh individual thing.

14:26

Yes, um I don't think you're but it's great.

14:37

And um like us to share our photographs.

14:41

Okay, and I can't see uh red J O V R A L you are computer.

14:53

So this is this is a Johnson, she uh serves uh and the uh the office public information as well.

15:00

So she can first take the photographs and then uh so of us and the bunch that we'll we'll try to try to watch me rich.

15:17

Oh yeah, yes.

15:27

Just be outside and be uh sorry, just ran all over you.

15:32

My apologies.

15:43

Oh my god.

16:09

Right.

16:10

I've got three copies.

17:16

I think that uses the only way to uh work.

17:56

Um, but it's new right, so I should try this.

18:24

Um no no right, like not that one year still.

18:34

Oh John's uh shape four.

18:36

Shape, yeah, yeah.

19:32

Which is the first one.

20:03

Okay, there's nothing that I think.

20:18

Yes.

20:22

I have it, but you see that one.

20:28

I think we're anymore.

20:32

When you call people I haven't heard of it.

20:41

Well that's when I'm not saying that's uh actually what's the one where you connect it.

21:14

I've always floated.

21:15

Okay.

21:15

But I've been on the circuit.

21:17

So you are with the first time.

21:43

Uh I've not worked in that.

21:49

So she's back.

21:56

Yeah.

21:57

I think contracting in here.

22:14

Yes.

22:16

Yeah, yeah.

22:21

Yes.

22:38

I think I don't know.

22:50

Oh, okay.

22:53

Yeah, yeah.

23:50

Uh yeah.

24:14

Okay.

24:14

Is it your only gun?

24:46

So you might have easy.

25:00

So you might have easily nothing.

25:23

I'm thinking that we go up.

25:31

Are they prepared some remarks?

25:34

Yeah.

26:09

Yes, we are like, I think two gray sort of steps.

27:00

Um that's called three.

27:27

I've seen them on the four.

27:34

It's a flat movie.

28:11

Oh, I know this name.

28:14

Yeah, I'll take a fairly one thing with my own.

28:23

It's called weekends.

28:40

I think that's a big difference.

28:44

Yeah.

28:44

That really takes sense.

28:47

So now you're right.

28:55

So I think that's a good thing.

29:19

And that was different.

29:43

And the case is not a good thing.

36:57

Good morning, Birmingham.

36:59

Today is Tuesday, May 5th.

37:01

The time is now 9 37 A.M.

37:04

I call to order the meeting of the Birmingham City Council.

37:07

Today's invocation will be led by Reverend Michael Frazier, pastor of Grace Covenant Worship Center in Birmingham.

37:15

Pledge of allegiance will be led by Councillor Clinton Woods.

37:19

If you're willing and able, please stand and join us.

37:29

Shall we bow ahead?

37:37

Bless the hands of those who will work the work of the people.

37:42

Bless every effort.

37:44

Bless us with unity for you said how good and pleasant it is for men to dwell together in unity.

37:50

We gather for the cause of your people, and we thank you for the grace that you placed upon each and every leader, every member, and of this great city.

37:59

Father, we thank you in Jesus' name.

38:01

Amen.

38:29

If we could have the roll call, please.

38:31

Councilmember Gunn.

38:32

Good morning.

38:35

Good morning.

38:37

Councilmember Smith.

38:39

Good morning.

38:41

Councilmember Smithman.

38:42

Good morning.

38:43

Councilmember Vasa.

38:45

Councilmember Williams.

38:48

Councilmember Woods.

38:50

Good morning.

38:50

Council President approaching.

38:53

Council President Alexander.

38:55

Good morning.

38:55

Thank you very much.

38:56

Councillors, if I could have a motion and a second for approval of the minutes from the previous meetings of January 6th, 2026 through January 27th, 2026.

39:25

That vote should be on Madam President.

39:28

It's unanimous.

39:29

All right, thank you.

39:30

Those approved minutes are approved.

39:32

Council is the minutes are not ready from February third, 2026 through April 28th, 2026.

39:39

At this time we'll have communications from the mayor.

39:41

Good morning, Mayor Whitney.

39:44

Good morning, Madam President.

39:45

Good morning, Councillor.

39:46

It's good to see all of you all this morning.

39:49

Good morning to the public as well as those who are here in the council chamber this morning.

39:54

Special note centered around the importance of uh smoke detectors.

40:00

Each week I'll continue to remind our residents of the importance of having a working smoke alarm in your home.

40:08

I think we all know it can mean that literally the difference between life and death.

40:13

Turns out that Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service offers free smoke alarms for Birmingham residents as well as free installation.

40:21

This year alone from January 1 through April 30th, they've already installed 676 smoke alarms throughout our city.

40:30

And we want to see that number continue to increase.

40:33

Birmingham residents who need a free smoke alarm can contact the Fire Prevention Bureau at 205-250 7540.

40:43

Again, that number if you need a smoke alarm as well as installation, you can call our fire prevention bureau at 205250 7540.

40:57

This time, Madam President of Council, I would like to ask Kristen Mullen as well as any guests she may have with her and the correction that's Crystal Mullen Johnson, CEO and founder of Nurture LLC to join me here at the podium as she speaks to and about mental health awareness month.

41:17

As we all know, May is mental health awareness month.

41:21

And Ms.

41:21

Mullen Johnson is here to share details about a special event co-hosted with the city of Birmingham that she's been doing for years.

41:31

Good morning.

41:32

Mayor Whitfin and Council President Wardine and Counselors.

41:37

Happy Mental Health Awareness Month.

41:40

I'm Crystal Mullen Johnson, and I'm excited about Nurture of Alabama.

41:45

Um partnering with the mayor's office.

41:48

This is a milestone year, the fifth year, and I think uh consistency is a really important in promoting mental health awareness.

41:55

And I see the great work that y'all are doing in your districts.

41:58

So thank you so much.

41:59

Just to give you some insight about this event, um, we have um two uh speakers.

42:05

We're honored to have Counselor Crystal Smitherman join us to provide remarks this year.

42:11

We also have a speaker from the Alabama Department of Mental Health, um, Brandon's uh folks um on the stage, and we also would have live performance this year by Logan the Entertainer.

42:23

So that will be exciting.

42:25

And on the lawn, we're gonna have some really important wellness activities.

42:29

Um, we will have a yoga on the uh the lawn, also um a fitness instructor session.

42:36

We will offer mental health consultations, which is really important.

42:40

Um, also we will have a therapist administering um PHQ 9 depression screening.

42:47

So after um they have those screenings, they'll have an opportunity to have those mental health consultations.

42:54

But the most important um part of this event, we have 60 plus community partners that will be joining us, sharing resources with our attendees.

43:05

So the goal of the if of this event is to improve access, meaning accessibility for services.

43:12

As we know, uh we are experiencing a mental health crisis.

43:16

Some people are uninsured, so we want to make sure that all people have the opportunity to be served.

43:22

So we wanted to stigmatize mental health on this day.

43:25

So we hope that y'all can join us, and of course, um Food Truck Friday is on this day.

43:30

Um, and also um, it's just gonna be a great event.

43:33

So thank you all for the opportunity to continue to partner with us uh for this event, and we just hope that we can continue to do this throughout the years.

43:43

Thank you.

43:53

Thank you so much, uh Ms.

43:55

Mullen Johnson.

43:57

Um, at this time, uh Madam President and Council, I would like to invite up for Small Business Week, Corey Coryate Hauser, along with this entire team from the Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity, and any other guests he has to join him.

44:13

May 3rd through May 9th, the City of Birmingham will observe Small Business Week under the theme Bill Big, Elevate Your Vision, Empower Your Journey, celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit, dedication and resilience, small business owners here in Birmingham to honor our small businesses and the professionals who support them.

44:36

Um is giving me permission to read a proclamation in part.

45:00

And whereas throughout this week, the City of Birmingham will host events, workshops, and initiatives designed to empower small businesses, expand networking opportunities, and provide valuable resources for continued growth and success.

45:07

Now, therefore, our Randall L.

45:09

Woodfin, Mayor of the City of Birmingham, along with the Birmingham City Council.

45:13

Do hereby proclaim May 3rd through May 9th as small business week.

45:18

And encourage all residents to support local small businesses and entrepreneurs and recognize their vital role in our community and economy.

45:26

And at this time, I believe one of Corey Alte's Hauser's team members, Mo Schwartz is here to provide some additional information.

45:36

Hi, thank you, Mayor.

45:37

Good morning, Council.

45:38

How are y'all?

45:39

Good morning.

45:40

My name is Mo Schwartz, and I pull this down.

45:42

I serve as a senior program manager for the Office of Business Adversity and Opportunity.

45:46

And this week is about connecting small business owners, entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders to resources and opportunities that can help them scale and grow.

45:55

So while all this week is sold out, thank you everybody for attending.

46:00

Make sure you come, but we have two options for virtual.

46:03

So please go be sure to register at IEO.gov.

46:08

We have two virtual streaming sessions on Wednesday and Friday.

46:13

But this is day three.

46:15

Yes, this is day three, and we're gonna go all the way until Saturday.

46:18

So there's something for everybody, and I look forward to seeing you all there.

46:22

Thank you.

46:23

Thank you so much.

46:31

Thank you.

46:34

Madam President, Council, if you aren't aware in May, um is we celebrate and acknowledge many things in the month of May.

46:42

Um, as you know, it may is mental mental health awareness month.

46:47

It's also historic preservation month, and it's also lupus awareness month.

46:52

Um, so bear with me, we have a few more of these, but at this time, um, as it relates to Historic Preservation Month, I would like to invite our PEP team, including the Historic Preservation Program, along with any of their guests to join me here.

47:09

Here they are, quiet in the back.

47:11

Birmingham's more than 150 year history is central to our culture and economic vitality.

47:18

Our historic preservation program works every day to protect not only our landmarks, but our neighborhoods and districts as well.

47:27

To recognize their efforts and celebrate Historic Preserv Preservation Month, I would like to read a proclamation in part that states whereas the City of Birmingham is committed to bringing awareness and education to the value and benefits of historic preservation and to highlighting the many facets of the historic preservation program.

47:47

And whereas during this month, the City of Birmingham will celebrate the efforts of those who work so hard to preserve our city's heritage and recognize the importance of historic preservation.

47:58

Now, therefore, I Randall L.

48:00

Woodman, Mayor of the City of Birmingham, along with the Birmingham City Council do hereby proclaim May 2026 as historic preservation month in our city and call upon residents to engage in public events, celebrating this milestone of historic preservation, and I call up the team now to provide any additional remarks that they would like.

48:24

Good morning, everyone.

48:25

Thank you, Mayor.

48:26

I appreciate that.

48:28

My name is Hannah Garmin, and I serve as the historic preservation manager for the city.

48:33

Thank you for those kind words.

48:35

I really appreciate the opportunity to speak about my passion, which is historic preservation.

48:41

Every May, we join cities across the country to celebrate National Historic Preservation Month.

48:48

But here in Birmingham, preservation isn't just about looking at old buildings, it's about telling our story through place.

48:59

From the industrial ironworks that birth the city to the sacred ground of the civil rights movement.

49:13

Preservation through documentation is how that we ensure that as Birmingham grows, we don't lose the soul of our neighborhoods.

49:23

By mapping our past and recording our stories today, we provide the blueprint for the next generation.

49:30

The preservation of place isn't just the responsibility of those who care about a place.

49:36

It is a grassroots act fueled by collective memory of everyone who lives or visits there.

49:44

While a building is made of brick and mortar, a place is made up of moments that happen inside it.

49:51

This month, our historic preservation team has curated an incredible calendar to help you connect with that history.

50:00

We will have a uh deep dive for those who follow us digitally through Throwback Thursdays, where we'll be pairing historic photos with modern views to just show you how much our streetscapes have evolved or not.

50:13

Um we'll also uh focus on our hidden gems series where we'll spot like the unsung heroes like Arthur Shores, Dio Wilden, and Wallace Reifield.

50:26

If you've ever wanted to be a detective for your own neighborhood, you can join me where I'll be guiding users how to use GIS and the National Register to research history of local properties.

50:39

And we also have a few in-person experiences for you.

50:43

This last Saturday, we had a tour at Rickwood Field hosted by Gerald Watkins and the Friends of Group, and it was exceptional.

50:51

I want to thank him for that.

50:54

Um, this Sunday at three, we head to the Birmingham Historical Society to hear James Lowry speak about the Memeral Mineral Railroad SATS project and how those markers trace our industrial roots.

51:08

Finally, I encourage you to visit with us on May 14th at 4 p.m.

51:13

at the Memorial Park in Tittysville, where we're hosting a community preservation spotlight with the Tittysville Marker Committee to discuss their grassroots effort to tell their story.

51:24

Birmingham's history is resilient and it belongs to all of us.

51:28

I'm proud to be part of Historic Preservation Month.

51:32

So let's get out there, learn about our history, and continue to build a future that honors our past.

51:38

Thank you.

51:38

Thank you.

51:50

Thank you all.

51:51

At this time, as it relates to lupus awareness month, I would like to invite Nicole Sorzano, Lupus Ambassador, as well as any guests how she may have to join me here at the podium.

52:16

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can damage tissues and organs, and in some cases can be life-threatening.

52:25

Millions worldwide are affected with thousands of new diagnoses each year.

52:30

To raise awareness and support those impacted.

52:49

And whereas increasing public awareness is essential to improving early diagnosis, expanding research, and supporting those living with lupus.

52:59

Now, therefore, I, Randall L.

53:00

Whitman, mayor of the city of Birmingham, along with the Birmingham City Council do hereby proclaim May 2026 as lupus awareness month in Birmingham, Alabama, as well as encourage residents to increase their understanding and support efforts in research, education, as well as patient care.

53:20

And at this time, I would like for Ms.

53:22

Nicole to share a few words.

53:24

Thank you.

53:27

Thank you, Mayor Woodfin.

53:29

Good morning to the council and good morning, everyone.

53:33

My name is Nicole Sorzano, and I'm an advocate and ambassador for the Lupus Foundation of America, and I have lupus.

53:41

For four years, I was in pain without answers.

53:44

I went through testing, scans, and specialist visits, trying to understand what my body was telling me.

53:50

I was in excruciating pain.

53:52

Even when the results came back normal, the symptoms didn't stop.

53:56

Once referred to a rheumatologist, the diagnosis diagnosis was lupus.

54:01

And I just want to give just a little brief background to what lupus is.

54:07

Lupus is an unpredictable and misunderstood autoimmune disease.

54:12

And it fights your body, your healthy tissue.

54:17

Instead of fighting the infection, it fights itself.

54:21

So you're in pain all the time.

54:22

Most people, one of the main complaints that they have, one of the main symptoms is pain and fatigue.

54:31

And it can affect it can affect your body and all your organs.

54:35

It's difficult to diagnose and has no known cause.

54:38

For many people living with lupus, symptoms are not occasional.

54:42

They are experienced every day.

54:44

On average, it takes six years for someone to be diagnosed from the time they first noticed symptoms.

54:50

And what that means is years of uncertainty, misdirection, and being told everything looks fine when it doesn't feel that way.

55:00

76% of people living with lupus report fatigue severe enough to impact their daily life.

55:05

55% say they are no longer able to work full-time due to complications from the disease, and this is a quality of life issue.

55:13

Lupus impacts an estimated 1.5 million people in the United States and here in Alabama, approximately 27,000 people are living with lupus, and they are not alone.

55:25

My journey didn't end with the diagnosis.

55:28

It continues through treatment adjustments, um, setbacks that I have monthly and learning how to live with a condition that does not have a cure.

55:40

It also led me here to advocacy to community and to making sure others do not feel unseen while navigating the same experience.

55:50

That is why recognition matters, and on behalf of your constituents, on behalf of the constituents with Lupas and the Lupus Foundation of America, I would like to thank Mia Whitfin for proclaiming Mayor's Lupus Awareness Month, and I invite everyone to visit lupus.org just to learn more about the disease and how to get involved.

56:12

Thank you.

56:13

Thank you.

56:22

Madam President and Council, last but certainly not least, I would like to invite Dr.

56:28

Teresa Rogers, who's president of the Birmingham Black Nurses Association, as well as any guests she may have to join me here at the podium as it relates to how we acknowledge Nurses Week here in Birmingham, Alabama.

56:43

Registered nurses make up the largest segment of our nation's health care workforce.

56:48

This week we honor their dedication and the critical care they provide every day, with the proclamation that I will read in part.

56:55

In the states whereas the demand for registered nurses, nursing services will be greater than ever because of the aging of the American population, emerging health challenges, the continuing expansion of life sustaining technologies, and the explosive growth of home health care services.

57:14

And whereas, along with the American Nurses Association, the Birmingham Black Nurses Association Incorporated, the Black the Alabama chapter of national associations of Hispanic Nurses and the Philippine Nurses Association Association of Alabama as declared May 6th through May 12th as nurses week.

57:34

With the theme, the power of nurses, with appreciation for nurses, unparalleled impact in their contributions to health care.

57:43

Now, therefore, I Randall L.

57:44

Wood, the mayor of the city of Birmingham, along with the Birmingham City Council, ask all residents to join me in honoring every registered nurse, that includes my sister.

57:56

As we recognize Nurses Week in the city of Birmingham and celebrate their contributions to our health care system, not just this week, but year-round.

58:06

And now I invite Dr.

58:07

Rogers to share more words.

58:10

Thank you.

58:16

Yeah.

58:17

Good morning.

58:18

Good morning.

58:20

I am Dr.

58:21

Theresa Flint Rogers, the president of the Birmingham Black Nurses Association.

58:26

On behalf of BBA, I want to thank the mayor and the city of Birmingham for recognizing and honoring the vital work of nurses across our communities.

58:37

The Birmingham Black Nurses Association is a professional organization dedicated to advocating for high-quality, cultural revolent health care for African Americans and other ethnic groups in Alabama.

58:53

Established in 1989, BBNA has been a cornerstone in the Birmingham community, providing mentorship and scholarships to nursing students, conducting or assisting in health care fairs, and supporting health care initiatives.

59:12

During the 2025, our organization touched at least 160,000 in the community, providing community health fairs and screenings.

59:39

Those are just some of the things we have done over the years that we've been in existence.

59:45

For 24 consecutive years, nursing has been named the most trusted profession in America.

59:52

This trust is earned through our integrity, our advocacy, and our unwavering commitment to patient care.

1:00:01

And yet, even as the nation depends upon us, recent federal language has attempted to classify the nurse as a non-professional.

1:00:13

Today, standing to standing together with our colleagues from the Philippine Nurse Association and the Hispanic Nurses Association, we affirmed what our communities already know.

1:00:29

Nurses are professionals, leaders, and essential pillars of health care.

1:00:36

This year's theme, the power of nurses, remind us that our strength is collective.

1:00:42

When we speak with one voice, when we stand united across cultures and communities, we shape policy, protect our patients, and elevate the standards of care.

1:00:55

Thank you for recognizing the power, the presence, and the professionalism of nursing in being in Birmingham and being young.

1:01:05

And we will have the president from the Philippine Nurses Association to come up.

1:01:11

Thank you.

1:01:15

I'm a nurse and Nestetist and the President of the Philippine Nurses Association of Alabama.

1:01:21

I'm with uh two members of our executive board, Ms.

1:01:24

Rita Castor Ford and Miss Mason Lieutenant Ordez.

1:01:28

On behalf of the organization, I would like to express her gratitude to Mayor Randall Woodman and his office for highlighting the profound uh contribution of nurses to the well-being of the city of Birmingham and beyond.

1:01:43

The diversity of nursing groups represented uh in this meeting is uh noteworthy.

1:01:51

There is strength, not only in numbers of which these local organizations part of the five million plus nurses nationwide.

1:02:00

There is strength and diversity.

1:02:04

The kaleidoscope of different experiences and expertise is what makes nursing strong.

1:02:11

Again, our heartfelt gratitude to Mayor Woodfin, his office in the city of Birmingham.

1:02:21

I just want to make one more comment.

1:02:24

Uh we are celebrating uh nurses week, but on May 8th, we'll like to invite you all at 5 p.m.

1:02:32

to come to the wreath laying at Kelly Ingram Park at the memorial site of Pauline Bray Fletcher.

1:02:41

She was the first African American RN in Birmingham.

1:02:48

Can you repeat those details again?

1:02:51

The date and time, the day and time.

1:02:54

Thank you.

1:02:55

Uh that would be May 8th, which is Friday, 5 p.m.

1:03:00

That would be the wreath lane ceremony.

1:03:04

Where is it?

1:03:05

At Lynn, you say Lynn Park?

1:03:08

Kelly Ingram.

1:03:09

Okay.

1:03:10

Thank you.

1:03:11

I'm sorry.

1:03:13

Okay.

1:03:13

One more time.

1:03:15

Daytime location.

1:03:16

Thank you.

1:03:17

Sorry.

1:03:19

The date is May 8th, 5 p.m., Kelly Ingram Park commemorating the first African American RN in the state of Alabama.

1:03:35

Thank you.

1:03:36

Thank you.

1:03:36

That is Pauline Bray Fletcher.

1:03:39

Thank you so much, Mayor Whitfin.

1:03:40

It is always a delight.

1:03:42

I know the month of May is filled with recognition for so many organizations.

1:03:46

I'm always excited when you bring the Black Nurses Association here for us to commemorate you and joining this other group of nurses.

1:03:56

We just, I know anyone that's ever been touched with any type of illness or need or help.

1:04:02

It's always the nurses that I remember, especially whenever you're in the hospital, the care you give.

1:04:08

I'm just grateful to each of you.

1:04:10

It's so exciting.

1:04:11

I always see you all in just love the work that you do.

1:04:14

And thank you again for reminding us of Pauline Bray Fletcher.

1:04:19

I know as a young girl, I used to go to that camp, and I was always just mesmerized by the work that she did in the community.

1:04:25

So thank you all.

1:04:26

Thank you so much.

1:04:28

Madam President, I'll just council.

1:04:31

I want to say thank you.

1:04:32

I know you guys have a very thankless job.

1:04:35

My sister is a nurse.

1:04:37

And I think nurses are some of the most intelligent people that I know.

1:04:42

I literally can call my sister and tell her, hey, this, that, and the third is wrong.

1:04:46

She'd be like, oh, it's this, and then I'll go to the clinic, and it'll be the exact same diagnosis.

1:04:50

But I will say during COVID, during the pandemic, when I first got COVID, I was very sick because I have asthma.

1:04:57

And so literally her nursing skills prevented me from going to the hospital.

1:05:02

And she really risked her life.

1:05:03

She came in with a mask, and she took care of me back to health.

1:05:06

And that really just talks about nurses, like y'all go above and beyond.

1:05:10

So thank you for what you do.

1:05:14

Madam President.

1:05:16

Madam President, you might have to make a comment.

1:05:18

Counselor Boss.

1:05:19

Thank you.

1:05:19

Uh I also just wanted to second those uh comments.

1:05:22

My mother was a nurse for 35 years, and um uh you know, took care of a lot of individuals, and she would often say that the nursing was a spiritual gift.

1:05:31

Uh she considered writing an ability to sort of bless others.

1:05:34

So uh she spent many many years doing that, so I want to thank my mother and and and then also thank you all for your diligent work.

1:05:41

Thank you.

1:05:42

Thank you.

1:05:50

Thank you, Mayor Wilton.

1:05:52

At this time, Mr.

1:05:53

Clerk, do we have any announcements of boards and agency expirations coming up in June?

1:05:58

No, ma'am.

1:05:59

All right, thank you.

1:06:00

Oh, sorry.

1:06:00

Oh, that's okay.

1:06:05

Okay, no.

1:06:06

I don't see it in the list.

1:06:07

I'm sorry.

1:06:09

She didn't put it in.

1:06:14

Okay, thank you.

1:06:15

Okay.

1:06:17

Sloss furnace.

1:06:18

Uh we have three vacancies.

1:06:21

So Joy Travis, Natalie Kelly, and Bart Stevens.

1:06:25

Uh all the terms expire June the 13th, 2026, and they are three-year terms, and they are on the park recreation and cultural arts committee.

1:06:34

All right, thank you.

1:06:34

We'll forward those over to that committee.

1:06:37

And um, thank you for those announcements on voice and agency expirations coming up in June.

1:06:43

At this time, counselors will reflect back to our agenda and uh look at the consideration of the consent agenda.

1:06:50

All items designated as consent are considered to be routine and non-controversial and will be approved by one motion.

1:06:58

No separate discussions of these items will be permitted unless a council member, the mayor, or citizen interested in a public hearing so request.

1:07:08

If so, such items, if so, such items will revert to its normal place on the agenda order of business.

1:07:15

All matters of permanent operation, they're indicated with a capital P on the agenda, will be read.

1:07:22

All other matters will be announced by reading the item number only.

1:07:26

All public hearings will be announced.

1:07:28

Mr.

1:07:28

Clerk, if you'll read the items that are being considered for consent.

1:07:31

Yes, ma'am.

1:07:32

Uh consent agenda starts on page two with item three.

1:07:36

Uh page three, we have items four, five, six, seven, and eight on consent.

1:07:43

Page four, we have items nine, ten, eleven, and twelve on consent.

1:07:48

Um page five, we have items thirteen and fifteen on consent.

1:07:54

And we're changing some information on item 15 to total amount is 10.

1:08:01

15.

1:08:02

15,000.

1:08:03

We're adding 10,000 from district five, and the fund is surplus fund 103.

1:08:08

That's for item 15.

1:08:12

Page six, items 16, 17, and 18 are on consent.

1:08:16

And third line down, um, just a typo on um you it should be youth instead of uh that spilling.

1:08:22

Yeah, page seven.

1:08:25

We have items 19, 20, and 21 on consent, and on item number 19, one, two, three, fourth line down.

1:08:33

We're going to strike Jefferson County.

1:08:36

And after the word across, we're gonna put districts five and nine.

1:08:40

Districts five and nine.

1:08:44

Page eight, items twenty-two, twenty-three, and twenty-four on consent, and on item number twenty three, uh first line.

1:08:52

We're striking and sections eleven dash forty seven dash seventeen, and of course, make code um singular.

1:09:04

Page nine.

1:09:07

Items 25, 26, and 27 are on consent.

1:09:12

Page 10.

1:09:14

Items 28 and 29 on consent.

1:09:17

Please note that item number 30 has been requested to be withdrawn from the agenda.

1:09:22

Page 11.

1:09:24

Items 31, 32, and 33 are on consent on item number 31.

1:09:29

Uh the um funding source should be D O T 047 CP instead of six.

1:09:36

That should be seven.

1:09:39

Page 12.

1:09:40

Items 34, 35, and 36, and 37 are on consent.

1:09:45

Uh page 13, items 38, 39, 40, and 41 are on consent.

1:09:49

Uh page 14.

1:09:51

Items 42, 43, 44, 45, and 46 are on consent.

1:09:57

And conclude with item number 49 on page 15.

1:10:01

All right, thank you.

1:10:03

Counselors, at this time, are there any items you'd like to have added or removed from the consent agenda?

1:10:09

Council of Vasa?

1:10:11

Yes, ma'am.

1:10:11

Uh I would request that item 28 and item 23 be removed from consent agenda, please.

1:10:17

Okay, that's item 23 on page 8 and item 28 on page 10.

1:10:25

Thank you.

1:10:26

Yes, ma'am.

1:10:26

Item 28 and item 23.

1:10:28

Yes, thank you.

1:10:29

Any other items, counselors?

1:10:31

Yes, council gunn.

1:10:33

Uh item 20.

1:10:34

All right, yes.

1:10:36

Item 20, page seven.

1:10:41

It's being requested to be removed from consent.

1:10:44

Any other items?

1:10:47

All right.

1:10:48

At this time, counselors will entertain a motion and a second on the items to be considered for consent.

1:10:53

Some of the second all right.

1:11:00

Voting should be open about now.

1:11:12

I'm an eye.

1:11:13

All right, there we go.

1:11:16

That vote should be up, Madam President.

1:11:18

All right, thank you.

1:11:19

Counselors, those items that were considered for consent have been approved.

1:11:25

If you're in the audience and you were here to hear for any of the items that were listed as consent, they have been approved, and we'll continue with the rest of our agenda.

1:11:32

First item, Mr.

1:11:33

Clerk.

1:11:34

The item one, an ordinance to further amend the zoning district map of the city of Birmingham, case number ZAC 2026-2 to change zone district boundaries from I-4, landfill mining, and uh timbering district, uh one light manufacturing district in order to construct an convenience door where they drive through filed by C of Rento LLC, the property owner, and Mike, the applicant for the property generally located at 101 drive north and situated in section 15, quarter section one, township 17, range 3 West Birmingham, 35207 in the hearing of all parties.

1:12:17

All right, thank you.

1:12:18

At this time, counselors, we are um considering an ordinance to further amend the zoning district map to change some zone boundaries.

1:12:27

And at this time, this is a public hearing, so I'll turn this over to Council of Vasa, co-chair of planning and zoning.

1:12:33

Thank you, Madam President.

1:12:34

Um PP staff for your present to report.

1:12:37

Thank you.

1:12:42

Good morning.

1:12:43

My name is Kim Sperl.

1:12:45

I serve as the zoning administrator in the Department of Planning, Engineering, and Permits.

1:12:50

Um for item one.

1:12:51

We are requesting that the council withdraw this item from the agenda.

1:12:56

The applicant had to make some amendments to his property related to a sanitary sewer issue, and that has impacted the legal description that was advertised for this ordinance.

1:13:10

So we have a companion item later in the agenda to reset a future public hearing.

1:13:17

So we would respectfully request that this item be withdrawn.

1:13:23

Thank you, Kim.

1:13:24

Um I hand the floor back to uh Madam President.

1:13:28

Thank you so much.

1:13:28

So counselors, we've heard from the staff, and the request is to withdraw this item, and we'll hear about it later in another item coming forward.

1:13:36

Next item, Mr.

1:13:37

Clerk.

1:13:39

An ordinance to further amend the zoning district map of the city of Birmingham, case number ZAC 2025-8 to change zone district boundaries from R6 multiple dwelling district to MUM mixed use medium district in order to construct a mixed use building consisting of residential and hospitality components filed by Ordington Redevelopment LLC, property owner, and C Randall Minor, uh Maynard Nexon, the applicant for property generally located at 1240, 22nd Street South, and situated in section six, the quarter section two township 18 range 2 West Birmingham 35205 in the hearing of all interest reports.

1:14:18

So moved.

1:14:19

Second.

1:14:19

Right, thank you, Counselors.

1:14:21

This is an ordinance to further amend the zoning district map to change the zone district boundaries.

1:14:26

I'll turn this public hearing over to Council of Vasa, co-chair planning and zoning committee.

1:14:31

Thank you, Madam President.

1:14:32

All right, uh PP staff.

1:14:34

Kim, welcome back.

1:14:39

Thank you.

1:14:39

Um once again, my name is Kim Spurl.

1:14:42

I serve as the city zoning administrator.

1:14:44

The item before you this morning is case the AC 2025-8.

1:14:50

The property is located in the Redmont Park Neighborhood Association.

1:15:00

This is a request to change the zoning from R6 multiple dwelling district to MUM mixed use medium for property located at 1240 22nd Street South.

1:15:09

The applicant is proposing to construct a new mixed use building at this site.

1:15:14

It will consist of residential and hospitality components.

1:15:19

The building is proposed to have a gross floor area of approximately 124,000 square feet that will be accessed primarily from 22nd Street South and a proposed height of 125 feet.

1:15:34

The subject property is approximately 0.81 acres, currently zoned R6.

1:15:42

The property to the north is zoned qualified office and institutional, and to the south, it is zoned office and institutional.

1:15:51

Properties to the east and the west are zoned R6 multiple dwelling.

1:15:57

The city's adopted long-range land use plan identifies this property as mixed use medium.

1:16:04

Per the city zoning ordinance, the height maximum and mixed use medium is 65 feet.

1:16:10

So if this rezoning request is approved, the applicant would have to request a variance for the height from the city zoning board of adjustment.

1:16:20

There were no comments regarding the proposed landscape plan.

1:16:25

The stormwater team did note that a city of Birmingham solar erosion control permit and a city of Birmingham civil construction permit would be required for new construction.

1:16:37

And there were no comments from the Department of Transportation regarding this rezoning request.

1:16:55

The applicant attended the Redmont Park Neighborhood Association on February 24th of this year, and there were four votes to approve the request and 23 votes to deny.

1:17:07

As a courtesy, the applicant also attended the Highland Park Neighborhood Association because the property does border that neighborhood, and they attended their meeting on March 10th.

1:17:20

They voted 20 votes to support the request and four votes to not support.

1:17:26

The applicant then attended the zoning advisory committee meeting at its regularly scheduled meeting on March 17th, 2026, and they voted 4 to 0 to support this rezoning request.

1:17:40

At its regularly scheduled meeting on March 24th, 2026, the planning and zoning committee met and they voted 4 to 0 to recommend this rezoning request to the full council.

1:17:55

And that concludes the staff report.

1:17:57

The applicants are present if there are any questions from the council.

1:18:02

Thank you, Kim.

1:18:10

At this moment, yes, ma'am.

1:18:12

Thank you, Mr.

1:18:13

Chair.

1:18:14

Kim, if you can give me, you say the um what was the first neighborhood?

1:18:19

Four votes the first neighborhood was Redmont Park.

1:18:23

Okay.

1:18:24

And the next one?

1:18:25

The next one was the Highland Park neighborhood.

1:18:28

That was 20 to support and four to deny.

1:18:31

For Redmont Park, it was four to approve, twenty-three to deny, and for Highland Park, it was 22 support and four to not support.

1:18:42

What was it?

1:18:43

ZBA?

1:18:44

Um the zoning committees.

1:18:48

The zoning advisory committee.

1:18:51

Yes, ma'am, the ZAC zoning advisory committee.

1:18:54

They voted four to zero to support.

1:18:57

Okay.

1:18:57

Thank you, Kim.

1:18:58

Yes, ma'am.

1:19:01

Any other questions from the council for PEP staff?

1:19:05

All right.

1:19:05

I think the applicant is here.

1:19:06

Do we have any questions from the council for turn this down?

1:19:20

New thing here.

1:19:21

Uh Randall Minor, uh, 1901 6th Avenue North, uh Land Use Attorney at Maynard Nexon Birmingham.

1:19:28

Uh we represent the applicant owner.

1:19:31

Um, and I'll just kind of go uh directly with Councillor Tate was um discussing.

1:19:35

This is a project that we've been working on pre-COVID, so it's been a long time uh coming.

1:19:41

It's gone through a couple of different iterations.

1:19:43

There's actually uh two development sites that were part of this.

1:19:46

So the first development site is uh 222 to 42's Arlington Avenue.

1:19:52

So at the base of Arlington Avenue, if you're coming down from the crest and then you're going up under the expressway to the right.

1:20:00

There's a thing's about a 30 million dollar development they did, office development.

1:20:03

Um there's a couple of architecture firms, professional offices.

1:20:07

Um it's part of the the whole plan that this development team has had for this uh this whole development site.

1:20:14

But the second development site is what the subject application is for.

1:20:18

It's about an 80 million dollar um hotel and a kind of medium project with also a restaurant component.

1:20:25

Um the idea is to have this be uh a gateway that connects uh this neighborhood down to Highland Avenue.

1:20:34

So we've been working with uh B Dot on a number of uh public infrastructure improvements.

1:20:39

Um as Kim mentioned, um, our plan is for a taller building than what's allowed in mixed use medium, and the reason why we applied for mixed use medium uh initially we applied for mixed use high, which has a 125-foot height limit.

1:20:55

The reason why we uh modified it to mixed use medium is because of the neighborhood conversation.

1:21:00

Um Redmont Park, and I I don't want to speak for them, you know.

1:21:04

I'm sure that they might have somebody here today, but um what what my perception of what happened is they they voted on both applications, uh, the variance application, and you know, which is not before you guys, that's you know different body, obviously, and the rezoning as one vote.

1:21:22

Um, and we've like I said, we've been working on this project since before COVID.

1:21:28

Our first uh neighborhood meeting where they voted was um was uh loud, but anyway.

1:21:37

Um our first neighborhood meeting where they voted um pre-COVID was 80 something against and maybe four for it.

1:21:47

So um we we were pleased with the uh a four for it and twenty against it on the latest iteration, and that is really a testament to what the design team you've got representatives from the development team here, but what the design team is kind of really developed something that the neighborhood is um generally speaking supportive of it.

1:22:09

Um and I say that knowing that you know it's a there's two neighborhoods involved, you know.

1:22:15

We're technically in Redmott Park, it's across the street from Highland Park, that's what we went to both of them.

1:22:20

Um so that that is um a longer version of you know just the neighborhood vote for this.

1:22:26

Uh we met in um November and December with a small group of neighborhood um folks to come up with this strategy of doing mixed use medium combined with the variants.

1:22:40

Um so this is something that we spent about two months working with the small group on.

1:22:44

Um so we're uh we feel like we've done a good job in terms of being responsive.

1:22:50

Obviously, the next part of this is getting um the variance application approved.

1:22:55

Um I think the only other thing I wanted to say was that um we did apply for qualified um uh mixed use high initially and then qualified mixed use medium.

1:23:09

Um it's before you guys today without any kind of qualifications, and it's it's been our commitment, you know, because of the conversation with the neighborhood to have conditions at some point.

1:23:21

What we would want to do is you know, go through the vote today, hopefully get approved for a variance next week or whenever we end up meeting before the ZBA, and then we'll have another application that we'll put in to put in the conditions that we've negotiated with the neighborhood group.

1:23:42

So that that is uh completes my presentation.

1:23:46

Happy to answer questions.

1:23:48

Um we've got uh I didn't introduce them, but you know, David Silverstein and David Silversine Jr.

1:23:53

here from Five Stone.

1:23:55

Um they're the um co-developers of the project, and you know, obviously I think people most people know you know, Pazitz, Summit, you know, I could keep on going a lot of development experience on the development team.

1:24:08

Um the goal for the for this project is for it to be kind of the same caliber if not higher than uh other developments.

1:24:17

Um and David, I mean, if you want to just talk a little bit about the hotel component, I think it might be good for them to hear about that.

1:24:27

Well, this time or this day, yeah.

1:24:32

Mayor um whoa, Madam President, council members.

1:24:36

I'm David Silverstein.

1:24:38

Um we think there's a void in this market for upper end hospitality.

1:24:47

Um so we want to bring something that's unique to this market in the way it serves our hospitality needs along with the top three four floors will have condominiums.

1:25:03

Um the blend of hospitality and condominiums are happening in other cities across the country.

1:25:09

I have a saying where I am in my office is Birmingham in Mars, and what's going on in Atlanta and Charlotte, Nashville can certainly be replicated here with the right project.

1:25:24

Um I love Birmingham.

1:25:28

I've had the pleasure of working with many administrations uh over the years to do quality project or attempt to do quality projects, starting with Dr.

1:25:40

Errington in 1994 when we began working on the summit.

1:25:45

Believe it or not, the summit will be 30 years old in October of uh next year.

1:25:52

Um worked on the Pazitz building.

1:25:55

Uh what a what an iconic piece of property that just didn't want to tear it down.

1:26:01

So I give the mayor and I give you, and I give our city um a commitment that this project will be equally, if not better, than some of the others that we have had the pleasure of working on over the years, and I look forward to it.

1:26:22

I've been working on it for seven years.

1:26:25

So like fine wine, you know, have to have takes time, I guess.

1:26:30

So any other questions for me, I'd be more than happy to answer.

1:26:35

Or you want to say anything?

1:26:40

Thank you.

1:26:40

Do we have any questions from counselors?

1:26:43

Yes, Council Williams.

1:26:45

Hey, um Randall David, whoever wants to answer.

1:26:48

Is this the project where the balloon was flown?

1:26:52

Yeah, we followed the balloon.

1:26:54

Same, okay.

1:26:55

And y'all are looking at at the end of the day, y'all are looking for 165.

1:27:00

125.

1:27:01

Oh, okay.

1:27:02

Was it ever 165 or 85?

1:27:05

Or was it everyone?

1:27:06

Early early on.

1:27:07

Okay.

1:27:08

You know, and then COVID hit, and then it we adjusted it.

1:27:11

Um the balloon was flown.

1:27:13

What level was that?

1:27:14

At that level.

1:27:16

At 165.

1:27:17

125.

1:27:18

125.

1:27:19

It was never 165.

1:27:20

Okay, okay.

1:27:23

You know, the scale of the project.

1:27:26

We we had the pleasure of also uh developing the crescent office building um immediately adjacent to this property.

1:27:34

And the scale and the and the crescent has a terrific uh vista towards the city.

1:27:40

I think the scale of that building is quite nice.

1:27:44

Um, and this will have the same scale of the Crescent Office building.

1:27:51

Thank you.

1:27:51

Any other questions from the council for the applicant?

1:27:56

No questions.

1:27:57

Um I have one question.

1:27:58

Um I happen to be at uh both of those uh neighborhood meetings.

1:28:02

Um I do see that the Highland Park Neighborhood Association uh voted 20 in support and four not to support.

1:28:08

These are two different sort of cases uh that would be before us.

1:28:13

Today we're just solely talking about a zoning change from R6 to mixed use medium.

1:28:20

There's a separate request that's in the application for a hype that's that's separate from today.

1:28:26

Um so my question is for Redmont Park.

1:28:29

Can you walk us through your understanding of why there were 23 votes to deny versus the Ford's support from that neighborhood?

1:28:37

I I think um, and I that's why I wanted David to talk about the hospitality piece of this.

1:28:43

I think there is a small small group in 20 might be large to some people, but you know, a significant group upon that uh of roughly the the number you said um that is opposed to having hospitality at this location.

1:28:57

Um, and so one of the points that we tried to explain to them was that it wasn't our idea to put mixed use medium here.

1:29:05

You know, that that was contemplated as Kim said as part of the long range plan.

1:29:09

Mixed use medium allows hospitality as a right.

1:29:12

So that's what you know re-invigorated the development team to look explore it and bring in hospitality.

1:29:19

One thing that David didn't mention about the hospitality piece of this is that there's an established uh five-star hotel operator in Alabama.

1:29:29

Uh they happen to operate uh I'm I'm allowed to say this right.

1:29:33

Yeah, uh in Auburn at the the Laurel Hotel in Auburn.

1:29:38

Um they're committed to come to this project to do a five-star hospitality piece to this.

1:29:44

Um so that you know the fact that the city's long-range plan contemplated mixed use medium, you know, that's what brought them, you know, took them to you know, get the folks in uh Ithaca is the name of the group uh to get them involved here.

1:30:00

Um so I think that, and again, I can't speak for those folks, but just my read on it is they didn't really like the hospitality piece, and they don't they don't want to have a rooftop bar, you know, this is that sort of kind of dynamic.

1:30:13

Um there won't be a rooftop bar, I don't think for this.

1:30:16

Uh it's a condominium building, you know, the upper floors are condominium, so we want to have a hotel product that's complementary to residential.

1:30:24

So I think that's what the um that's Randall's um impression of the situation.

1:30:32

Um I think the I think it probably would have been a similar um vote to Highland Park had they broken up the items.

1:30:42

Um so Highland Park, you know, we had you know significant support, you know, for the project, you know, you were there um uh in terms of this part of it, the the variance part was where you know uh just for everybody's benefit, you know, for the variance, you know, we're going to zoning board at some point of adjustments.

1:31:01

Um they also take neighborhood input, and so the you know, the same kind of a similar kind of neighborhood form goes to them.

1:31:07

Um so Highland Park kind of broke theirs out into two, Redmar Park did one.

1:31:11

Um, and so I think that's what happened.

1:31:14

Um, but again, if if they're here, they they can clarify.

1:31:18

Let me just follow up.

1:31:20

You know, I've had the pleasure over the years to work with Howland Park and Redmont Park, a lot of different projects.

1:31:29

And I I respect their passion for their neighborhood, and that's what makes this location even better because both those neighborhoods um stay involved with what's going on.

1:31:43

As I reflect back on where we are today and where we started seven years ago.

1:31:50

I think we have been able to uh ensure that the residents of both those committees uh communities understand what we're doing, why we're doing it, and our commitment to do it the right way.

1:32:04

And I don't know if anybody's here today to voice objection, but in my world that's reflective of sort of the commitment and the understanding that we have with both neighborhoods.

1:32:18

All right, thank you very much.

1:32:19

Any other questions from council?

1:32:21

Council Williams.

1:32:22

I'm just curious, I'm now I'm curious.

1:32:24

What what is the big objection to a rooftop bar?

1:32:31

What was the what's the big objection to uh a rooftop bar if it's at 125 feet um that would make too much noise.

1:32:42

I don't necessarily agree with that.

1:32:45

Under 25 feet in there.

1:32:47

Uh but um right now the plans don't include that because we have kind of we have condominiums on the top floors, so there's a need to ensure that what goes on on the top um is additive to the condominiums and don't disturb those uh particular owners that have bought a condominium in the building.

1:33:11

But the but you said the the operator in Auburn is willing yeah it um really and what it's like.

1:33:19

Well I'll be more direct.

1:33:21

We we definitely um we definitely disagree with the the folks that are opposed to the project in terms of just what appropriate use for the site.

1:33:30

You know, I think if we're talking to and I'm gonna go on a tangent here, so apologies, but one of the concerns from a zoning perspective that some of the folks uh the neighborhood uh expressed, which to me had was a very good argument, is if we were to do mixed use high at this location, then slowly up the hill you could get mixed use high.

1:33:55

And so a lot of the opposition that we've gotten that's kind of been kind of consistent here are folks that live you know on the crest or in and kind of you know, where this arguably, you know, it impacts their viewshed, and um, and so their concern was all right, you know, it's a slippery slope, you're just gonna go up the hill, you know, Randall's gonna come back and zone this block and that, you know.

1:34:19

So that was kind of why they were like, hey, why don't y'all do mixed use medium?

1:34:23

Then that preserves this as a lower scale area.

1:34:28

And we we think you guys have enough hardship because of the slope of your site because you're uh adjacent to the expressway, you know, all of the things that you would normally put in a variance application.

1:34:40

We think you guys have enough hardship to where your site you can get height.

1:34:45

Um, and so that's really that's really like the height argument for it.

1:34:50

Um the use part of it, I I think, and I'm paraphrasing, but um, I think a comment was said at one of the meetings that you know we don't want another pickup bar in the neighborhood, you know.

1:35:00

Um the use part of it, I I think, and I'm paraphrasing, but um, I think a comment was said at one of the meetings that you know we don't want another pickup bar in the neighborhood, you know, so it's kind of a thing where people are not uh appreciative of the um what we're trying to do here and just the reality of you know, when you do an 80 million dollar development, it's you know the goal is not to have something that is uh dilutive to people that might live on the top of the mountain.

1:35:25

All right, thank you very much.

1:35:26

I think we're gonna move now.

1:35:28

There are any further comments uh to the public hearing uh portion uh of this.

1:35:35

So raise of hands.

1:35:36

Uh who in the audience is here to speak.

1:35:38

Looks like we just have one speaker.

1:35:40

All right, feel free to come up to the podium, uh, state your name and address, and you will have three minutes to speak.

1:35:50

Um I'm Paul Gundenby.

1:35:52

I live at uh 920 24th Street South.

1:35:55

I'm president of the South Side Neighborhood Association.

1:35:58

Um, and I've been in contact with the uh Redmont Park people over time period, so I know that there's a significant uh opposition to this.

1:36:08

I'm thought they'd be here today, so perhaps I'm speaking for them.

1:36:12

I have a personal interest in this because uh years ago a friend of mine lived in an apartment building that's adjacent to the uh proposed site.

1:36:21

This was back when John Carroll High School was right down there on Highland.

1:36:25

So I go out to his apartment, you know, we'd have a nice time.

1:36:28

And so I'd have to drive in and out uh numerous times up there, so I'm very familiar with the traffic flow pattern that goes through there.

1:36:37

The main way to get in at that particular time is to go up Parkington.

1:36:40

I think it's 23rd Street, the old 23rd Street that turned up there to go to his apartment.

1:36:46

Um I don't see how this neighborhood, even with the so-called improvements, can support any traffic flow for something like a hotel.

1:36:59

There's also no walkability and no stores close by for any hotel guest to go to.

1:37:07

If you walk from that property around to where Highland uh supermarket used to be, the western used to be, that would be at least four to five blocks one way and four to five blocks to come back going up a very steep hill.

1:37:24

And it's just uh I just don't see it as being feasible for any hotel there.

1:37:30

Another problem is a lot of these high-end luxury uh apartments that he's proposing.

1:37:35

We have a glut of empty vacant apartment units available.

1:37:41

Courtland Vesta, one to send Scala Steelhaven, um, Tower Own Tent, Artisan Flats.

1:37:50

Uh they still have in the Met in Lakeview and Rise, they still have empty units.

1:37:57

So we don't need any more empty units because all this does is uh drop up the tax rate for the smaller uh business people, and we also have a glut of empty retail space available.

1:38:13

You can just walk anywhere or drive anywhere, space available here, retail here.

1:38:18

Same thing with the restaurants.

1:38:20

We have several restaurants I know of that are sitting empty, turnkey ready to go, but nobody's in them.

1:38:27

So I don't see how this project can support any business in the future.

1:38:35

All right, thank you for your comments.

1:38:38

All right.

1:38:38

Seeing no other speakers, this concludes um oh, I'm sorry, we do have one additional second.

1:38:46

And a question.

1:38:47

Counselor Tate.

1:38:48

Thank you, Mr.

1:38:49

Chair.

1:38:49

How many rooms uh, how many rooms?

1:38:52

You say eight?

1:38:54

Eighty, okay.

1:38:54

And how many condominiums?

1:38:56

Up to 30.

1:38:57

30.

1:38:57

It's probably less than that, but up to 30.

1:38:59

Okay, thank you for your kindly.

1:39:01

Yeah, and the um, and I think I can just wrap it up.

1:39:04

Um, so we we had a a pretty um similar conversation with Highland Park.

1:39:10

Um, and so some of the issues that uh were just mentioned came up during that.

1:39:15

And you know, we spent a lot of time thinking about traffic, walkability, all those things.

1:39:21

Um of the issues with the current layout of that area is to the point he made.

1:39:28

There's no sidewalk.

1:39:29

You can't go from this site into Highland Um Avenue easily.

1:39:35

So part of the development plan here, and part of the reason why we need the height variance is we're pushing the building as far away as possible from Sycamore Manor.

1:39:45

That's the apartment complex that he mentioned.

1:39:48

We're putting parking underground, we're creating a motor court, we're redesigning.

1:40:00

We, you know, we're we're working with B Dot to uh redesign the uh the exit from 280 and then create connectivity to Highland Park.

1:40:05

So the the end goal of all of this is there'll be more density people that can walk to businesses.

1:40:13

Um this is you know not an apartment building.

1:40:16

This is you know, leading with being a hospitality building, transient residents, uh targeting um uh an average daily rate that we think is achievable.

1:40:27

You know, the Grand Bohemian and the Valley have proven that in kind of this part of you know our region, you can command um extremely high daily rates, so it's giving you the city of Birmingham an opportunity to collect some of those same rates that you know Mountain Brooker Homeward are getting with the walkability so that people can you know walk to Botega or you know whoever they want to go to.

1:40:54

Um I should also add that there's a uh um an opportunity for um uh a restaurant space within this building that would have vistas of the city of Birmingham.

1:41:06

So that there's a lot of things here that make this a lot different than some of the other projects that was mentioned.

1:41:14

Thank you very much.

1:41:15

Are there additional comments from council?

1:41:18

All right, uh I had a question for staff and staff so president Kim.

1:41:23

Um I just wanted to make sure that the queue conditions that were were approved by Zach are included in this item.

1:41:32

So they were not included at the vote at the planning and zoning committee.

1:41:36

The motion was made just to approve his mixed use medium with no Q conditions.

1:41:42

All right, thank you.

1:41:43

And uh the only additional comment I would have to make on this is uh again I was uh present for both of these neighborhood uh meetings and have had several conversations with uh several residents in these areas, and I know the primary concern uh is on what is in the application not necessarily before us today, and that is the height.

1:42:05

Uh it is my understanding that the neighborhood had voted previously on a variation for the height max to an agreed upon 80 foot or 85 foot.

1:42:15

Is that is that right?

1:42:16

I believe that's right.

1:42:17

Um, and so uh so I know that there's an appetite for something like um a mixed use medium.

1:42:24

Uh the concern though is the height variance, which is again not on our item today for voting.

1:42:30

So just wanted to clarify that.

1:42:32

Um last questions.

1:42:35

Seeing none, I'll hand it over to President.

1:42:37

Thank you.

1:42:37

Thank you so much, Council Vasel, for conducting this public hearing, and thank you to the speakers um staff as well as the applicant and um those comments that were made during the public hearing.

1:42:51

At this time, counselors, if there are no other questions, we're ready for the vote counselors okay.

1:43:10

I'm an eye as well.

1:43:11

Okay, thank you.

1:43:12

That vote should be up, madam for all right.

1:43:14

Thank you, counselors.

1:43:15

Item number two passed this next item.

1:43:17

Uh should be item 14 president.

1:43:24

I have one minute on another topic related to the city of Birmingham.

1:43:28

Mayor, I need mayor you just have a comment or are you gonna I want to congratulate the city of Birmingham?

1:43:36

Mayor, I want to congratulate you and the council.

1:43:40

I woke up yesterday morning and I saw an article in the Wall Street Journal that stated that Birmingham is the hottest spot for college grads to come.

1:43:55

Being born and raised here, I have four of my five kids here.

1:44:00

My fifth one's coming back from Nashville.

1:44:03

I'll have 13 grandkids here.

1:44:08

And for those of us who have really enjoyed developing projects in Birmingham, it's hard to get that kind of publicity, and it's a direct reflection on leadership and how we go about doing business.

1:44:34

And if you hadn't read it, please do.

1:44:37

So congratulations to the city of Birmingham.

1:44:40

Thank you so much.

1:44:42

I will uh reclaim my time and just say that I also read that article, actually had someone to send it to me from New York, and as a grandparent myself that has a rising senior that's about to graduate from college.

1:44:58

I want her to come back to Birmingham as well.

1:45:00

So I know that's always something we look forward to.

1:45:03

So thank you for bringing that up and mentioning that.

1:45:05

We're very proud of that.

1:45:07

Thank you.

1:45:08

All right, thank you, Mr.

1:45:09

Clerk.

1:45:10

Next item.

1:45:11

Item 14.

1:45:12

What's the item number?

1:45:14

Uh 14.

1:45:15

Thank you.

1:45:15

An ordinance to amend the Kelvin Field or ordinance in Article C of Chapter 10 and Title 12 of the General Code of the City of Birmingham, which regulates and requires a safety plan for entertainment establishments and clubs.

1:45:29

Um need you see to pass this today's first reading.

1:45:33

Second uh council member gunn.

1:45:36

Aye.

1:45:36

Councilmember O'Quinn.

1:45:37

All right.

1:45:38

Councilmember Smith.

1:45:39

Hi.

1:45:39

Councilmember Smithman.

1:45:43

Councilmember Williams.

1:45:44

Councilmember Woods.

1:45:47

Council President Pro Tim Tate.

1:45:49

Aye.

1:45:49

Council President Alexander.

1:45:51

Aye.

1:45:52

And a motion on the item.

1:45:55

Second.

1:45:56

All right.

1:45:56

Thank you, Councillors.

1:45:57

Item 14 is an ordinance to amend the failure ordinance, which would uh regulate and require a safety plan for entertainment establishments and clubs.

1:46:07

Do we have any additional information about this item that we can just make known before we consider it?

1:46:16

Yes, sir, Council Williams.

1:46:18

So where is this?

1:46:20

Where are these going to be centrally located where we can access them if needed?

1:46:29

What?

1:46:34

Yeah, the ordinance.

1:46:35

The safety plans.

1:46:37

The safety plans.

1:46:39

Currently, it's a challenge for us to get what we currently have in place sometimes, because it doesn't seem that one group has them.

1:46:48

It's kind of like, well, I thought they emailed it to them, but uh maybe they emailed it to them.

1:46:53

So if we're gonna have an ordinance that requires it, I'd like to know where it's going to be located.

1:46:58

Attorney King.

1:46:59

Right.

1:47:00

So I can have attorney Roberts come up to provide additional information, but those reports also will be housed with public safety as well.

1:47:14

Thank you.

1:47:15

If you'll just identify yourself and give us that additional information, thank you.

1:47:20

My name is uh Phil Morton.

1:47:21

I serve as a police deputy chief of investigations.

1:47:24

Uh to answer your question, Mr.

1:47:25

Williams, the uh such plan will be housed with the chief of police.

1:47:30

Okay.

1:47:31

So if we if a public safety or council member wants to see a um safety plan, those will be archived, correct?

1:47:42

I I'm sure that there's a conduit there that you would be able to get those.

1:47:50

Yes, sir.

1:47:51

It's just yes, just request requested from legal.

1:47:54

We'll be sure to get it to you.

1:47:56

Okay, because you know, last public safety meeting, you know, the applicants are there showing us where they've emailed it to the police, and the police are saying I didn't get it, and then they have an email and they said, Oh, they this person no longer works there anymore, and you know, all that kind of stuff.

1:48:11

And we're like you never submitted us the safety plan, and they're like, Yeah, we did.

1:48:16

Y'all just think of it.

1:48:18

Um Madam President, so Council Williams question and concern, I think with what we're passing today.

1:48:24

Um the administration will be asking legal uh to get with the police department on a and on a better way to capture information, store that information and make sure that information can be shared and ready readily available if and when the council requests it.

1:48:44

Won't be BPD in isolation, make sure they partner with the legal department.

1:48:47

Okay.

1:48:49

Thank you, Mayor Whippin.

1:48:51

Thank you, sir.

1:48:52

Yes, ma'am.

1:48:52

I do feel this is a very valid request from public safety and the committee, because so often when we have uh organs establishments that come, and sometimes the prevailing factor that makes us want to approve or deny that request lies within the public safety plan that they are preparing, and I would like to be sure that we have a process in place, an archival as well as a retrieval, and we know who to go to so that the committee or any counselors would be able to retrieve that information.

1:49:27

Yes, ma'am.

1:49:28

Chief um Chief Sparks will be working with attorney king as well as Chief Hickett to make sure we honor the request from you and your colleagues.

1:49:36

So if this item moves today, what would be the timeline that we could expect that to be in place so that we could have a report back to us through committee of the whole?

1:49:47

Um is there any particular timeline that we might be able to ask that in three months, six months, 30 days, 30 days or less 30 days?

1:49:54

Okay, just again, it's the archival and retrieval, and just where that is stored.

1:50:00

Yeah.

1:50:01

Go ahead, Council.

1:50:02

I mean, my question is where are they now?

1:50:04

So, like if I said, okay, Club ABC, I would like to see their safety plan.

1:50:10

They haven't been brought before public safety, but let's say that there was an incident.

1:50:16

Where how does that get to the council?

1:50:19

Business compliant has it.

1:50:21

So your your witness usually testifies before your committee for public safety hearings is usually business compliance, which our members of BPD, they have that information.

1:50:33

But we'll we're not getting it.

1:50:37

And then the applicant is showing it to us on their phone when they've given it to business compliance two months or two years ago.

1:50:46

That's why that's why I literally elevated it to Chief Pickett above the DC of investigations to make sure top down.

1:50:54

Um this is rectified.

1:50:56

Okay.

1:50:56

Thank you.

1:50:57

Thank you.

1:50:57

Uh Council Pro Cham.

1:50:59

Yes, ma'am.

1:50:59

Thank you, Madam President.

1:51:00

Um, let me just state for the record and at least let me be really clear.

1:51:04

Um, every application that comes to public safety, I do receive a public safety plan.

1:51:10

If it's a older club or whatever establishment that's, you know, I'm like counselor Williams where information.

1:51:17

So I just want to state on the record that I don't move anything into public safety without a plan for for the record.

1:51:26

So I just want to make that real clear.

1:51:29

So if it was something they predated, you know, me or whomever is sitting up here, then you know I you know, I'm in agreement with them, you know, that information has to be researched and you know, you know, bought before us, but I'm not here to just to discuss, you know, anything that's this, you know, we're talking about going forward, but I do want people to know that we do get public safety plans.

1:51:53

And I think that's understood, Pro Tim.

1:51:56

The question to me and the concern is just being sure there's a retrieval and an archival process.

1:52:02

So very good.

1:52:03

Thank you for reiterating that.

1:52:05

Counselor O'Quinn.

1:52:07

Yeah, just wanted to say thank you to public safety committee and um staff and whoever else worked on this, um, read through the ordinance, and you know, it really tightens up a lot of things and closes some gaps.

1:52:28

Um, you know, this has been uh issue that we've dealt with for a long time, and and um puts a lot of stress and strain on our police department, especially, you know, some of these venues have um been very problematic, and you know, we're trying to address the situation.

1:52:56

Next thing you know, we got four or five police officers, you know, working overtime to try and mitigate any potential potential situations, and that's just something you know we shouldn't have to do in an expense taxpayers shouldn't have to um bear.

1:53:18

So um again, thank you for rationing up the level of accountability.

1:53:26

Yeah, thank you.

1:53:28

Any other comments?

1:53:29

Councillor Smithman.

1:53:31

Thank you, madam president.

1:53:32

Can we just give a brief summary of the changes to the ordinance?

1:53:42

I mean, I know we have it, but I'm just saying for the public.

1:53:46

Thank you, attorney Robins.

1:53:48

Yes, well, we can run through the changes real quick.

1:53:52

Um as you look through it in the definitions, uh, late night establishment definition was added.

1:54:03

Late night establishments won't open uh for patrons between 12 a.m.

1:54:08

and 5 a.m.

1:54:11

Also um serious incident definition was added.

1:54:19

It's generally uh an affray or or a uh altercation between three or more persons.

1:54:37

A description of the type of training requirement was added uh under section 12-10-46.

1:54:47

That's B6.

1:55:00

And a clear legible site plan that accurately accurately reflects the current layout of the establishment.

1:55:06

The requirement for the site plan to include uh descriptions of those areas was added on under number 12, as well as the exterior layout was added under number 12.

1:55:29

The requirement that every establishment uh and club operator uh prepare a written site plan that includes all the elements required in subject B above was added under section C of that uh or subsection C of that section.

1:55:48

If you look at uh subsection three or subsection C3, uh it it addressed the public record aspects of the safety plan uh and and modified that to uh accurately reflect when that can be distributed.

1:56:08

Um late night establishments have to file an additional written safety plan, and that was added under subsection D.

1:56:19

And I believe that is well there's there's one more, there's a couple more revisions under 12-10-52.

1:56:29

Um interior security personnel have to be present, and the uh requirement to have cameras in place uh with footage retained for up to 30 days, and that covers all of the revisions.

1:56:50

Thank you.

1:56:51

Thank you.

1:56:51

Um, I just want to say you all do an excellent job with this ordinance and public safety committee.

1:56:57

Um, a lot of times I think council Williams kind of hit on this when incidents happens, they automatically look to the city council.

1:57:05

And I think this gives a pretty fair um standard and guideline for these late night establishments because we have to understand that this the generation, I think the young generation that goes out is very different from prior generations, and so I think having these things in place will ensure that safety is not guaranteed, but at least we can make sure that we hold these establishments accountable uh with this ordinance.

1:57:33

So um, Madam Pro Tim, I just want to say thank you for your work, Council Williams, Councillor Vasa.

1:57:39

You know, this is what committees are for to take policy and improve it for our residents.

1:57:44

So thank you.

1:57:45

Thank you.

1:57:46

Thank you, attorney.

1:57:47

And I echo that um counselor Smitheman and great work that's been done in putting this document together.

1:57:56

We often, as counselors, we have ordinances, but we always are striving to put more teeth into the ordinance, and so I think the conversation that we've had today, we just want to thank you and thank you, madam pro chairman, your committee, and the work of staff and BPD uh for ensuring that we have definitely put more teeth into this, and so we look forward to um changes that would be required under this ordinance.

1:58:21

Thank you all very much, and also want to thank Chief Pickett and his staff.

1:58:25

Thank you.

1:58:26

This time we're ready for the vote.

1:58:37

Council member, okay.

1:58:39

That should be everybody.

1:58:40

All right, thank you very much.

1:58:41

That item passes.

1:58:42

Thanks again for everyone for the hard work.

1:58:45

Oh, next time public safety recommended that.

1:58:48

Okay, and we add that public safety committee did recommend that item.

1:58:51

Thank you.

1:58:53

Next item should be uh 20.

1:58:58

Just on page 7.

1:59:01

Item 20, a resolution approving and authorizing the mayor to execute a grant agreement with the community foundation of Greater Birmingham under which the community foundation of Greater Birmingham will make a grant to the city of Birmingham the amount of 240,394.44 cents to be used for the North Side Spark Project, which will involve right-of-way improvements in three uh north side neighborhoods to consist of traffic calming and gateways in the Norwood neighborhood and sidewalk repairs in the droid hills and fountain heights neighborhoods to mitigate the impacts of I-2059 downtown bridge replacement project and to improve the quality of life in the Northside Community motion, please.

1:59:44

Second.

1:59:45

All right, thank you, Councillors.

1:59:46

This item was on a consent and was pulled by Councillor Gunn.

1:59:49

Councillor Gunn.

1:59:50

Thank you, Madam President.

1:59:51

Uh, the reason that I pulled this item uh from uh the agenda was just for public awareness.

1:59:56

Um I get super excited when I hear about projects coming to the north side.

2:00:00

Um, and so I just wanted to know when can we expect uh when and where uh these improvements will take place so we can relay those messages uh to constituents in our districts.

2:00:10

Thank you.

2:00:13

Thank you, Mayor Whiffin.

2:00:17

Madam President, um I have Colin Alexander um who's gonna come in and um speak more fluently to what your colleague uh counselor collins just um chair.

2:00:34

Good morning to the council.

2:00:36

Thank you.

2:00:36

My name is Colin Alexander.

2:00:38

I serve as the program manager in the Birmingham Department of Transportation.

2:00:42

So back when Aldot was replacing the bridges downtown before they started construction, there was a lawsuit involving several community members in the north side neighborhood, and the settlement of that lawsuit was a fund from Aldot that was managed by the community foundation for improvements in the North Side neighborhood to mitigate the impacts of the bridge.

2:01:08

Um it was up to the plaintiffs who were then made into a committee to decide how they wanted to spend those funds in the north side area.

2:01:18

Um the uh towards the end of last year, the plaintiffs voted on two projects.

2:01:23

One of them is a traffic combing and sort of gateways improvement project in Norwood, and the rest was for sidewalk improvements in Druid Hills and Fountain Heights.

2:01:50

Um the Norwood project would include speed cushions um in locations that had previously been um approved and supported by the neighborhood, but were never funded and installed, um, including sort of what would have been the 14th Avenue corridor if 14th Avenue existed, kind of along 28th, 29th, 30th, 31st, and a couple of other blocks that have been concerned to the neighborhood.

2:02:15

Um, I think there's also like some gateway pillars around 31st Street that this would fund um as a gateway into the neighborhood.

2:02:24

And then for the remaining of the funds, they would be divided evenly between Fountain Heights and Druid Hills, and once the funding is set up, we'll have our teams go out and um identify how much sidewalk we can repair based on the funding available.

2:02:40

Okay, thank you.

2:02:42

All right, thank you.

2:02:43

And Colin, while we have you here, I do want to just make note and attention we did have a consent item this morning, item 33 that talked about our sidewalk uh repairs project.

2:02:54

And so I know that some of these sidewalks could be this is a separate project, but I do want to thank BDOT for the work that's been done.

2:03:01

Uh and counselors, if you all go back and look at that item, you'll see a list of those sidewalks.

2:03:06

So thank you very much.

2:03:08

Thank you.

2:03:09

All right, any other questions?

2:03:11

All right, thank you.

2:03:12

We're ready for the vote.

2:03:13

Thank you.

2:03:13

Thank you, Colin.

2:03:15

Okay.

2:03:16

One second here.

2:03:25

That vote should be up, Madam President.

2:03:26

All right, thank you.

2:03:27

Item 20 passes.

2:03:29

Next item.

2:03:32

A resolution pursuant to Section 11-40-1 and 38-2-9 codes of Alabama 1975 authorized emitter execute and deliver in agreement with urban impact.

2:03:46

I'm sorry, wrong item.

2:03:50

23.

2:03:51

Item 23 and resolution pursuant to section 11-40-1, striking uh 11-4-7.

2:03:59

Uh, that's 17 codes of Alabama 1975 authorizing the mid execute and deliver an agreement with wildflower alliance, under which the wildflower alliance will provide community support for parents of children with disabilities offering support for families, essential resources for children with disabilities and a strong sense of belonging for a term ending on June 30, 2026 in an amount not to exceed, and looks like we're changing that to $6, and 500.

2:04:27

Says funds will come from District 1 and District 3 discretionary funds.

2:04:32

So we would also add districts six and seven, uh $500 from both districts.

2:04:38

Um, so I guess a motion to amend that item would be in effect for that.

2:04:44

So move.

2:04:45

Thank you.

2:04:46

All right, thank you.

2:04:47

So we've amended that item, and we also had Council of Vasa that had asked to be pulled from consent.

2:04:53

So Council Vasa.

2:04:54

Thank you, Madam President.

2:04:55

Uh, just wanted to uh really lift up the Wildflower Alliance.

2:05:00

We have the executive director here today.

2:05:01

Um who's also the founder, uh, Miss Latoya Mems.

2:05:05

Uh there's an event this Saturday that is uh being supported by this event.

2:05:09

It's at Bessie of Still Park.

2:05:11

And uh so we just want to uh thank the Wildflower Allowance for that.

2:05:15

And Ms.

2:05:15

Mims, I didn't know if you had a comment or two uh just to speak on the event that's coming up this Saturday at Bessie Cell Park.

2:05:30

Good morning.

2:05:31

Good morning.

2:05:33

Thank you guys so much for the opportunity to present about the Buddy Big Top Carnival that's gonna be at Braylands Way at the Bessie Estel Park.

2:05:43

As Councillor Vasa said, my name is Latoya Mems.

2:05:46

I am founder executive director of the Wildflower Alliance, and I'd like to introduce Brittany Williams, the chief operating officer.

2:05:52

And we really just wanted to stress the importance of Birmingham being the model for what inclusion will look like in our communities moving forward.

2:06:01

We're co-hosting this event with the Department of Parks and Recreation.

2:06:05

We have Lecture Found Um Foundation as an activities partner.

2:06:09

So all activities are designed for every child to be able to participate, and they'll be adapted as the child presents to that activity.

2:06:17

We also have Culture City who's presented as our sensory partner.

2:06:21

Um and so we're just really excited about Birmingham being the model of what it looks like when every child is considered from the beginning.

2:06:29

So we do have 126 children currently signed up.

2:06:34

57 of those are children without disability, while 69 of those are children with disabilities.

2:06:41

We have a variety of diagnoses that will be present, ranging from autism, cerebral palsy, down syndrome.

2:06:50

We have epilepsy and seizure disorders that will be present, ADHD, other complex medical complexities, visual impairments, hearing impairment.

2:06:59

So as those children arrive and those families arrive, they'll feel accommodated for, they'll know that we've designed this event intentionally for them to be able to be able to participate in this community event.

2:07:11

And so I'll let Britney talk a lot more about what the structure of the event is going to look like.

2:07:15

So we also have children's ages range from uh one years old to 25 years old, actually, that'll be present at the event.

2:07:21

And so when we talk about the structure of it, like how can kids play together.

2:07:25

Um so we've designed where you have these buddy skills where it teaches the kids how to be considerate, how to be inclusive with each other, and with that we have activities that they'll do together as they play through the carnival.

2:07:36

Um, and so they'll get a buddy passport where they'll be able to stamp it and say that we did these things together as they navigate through, and with that they get to learn how to play together and to consider a friend.

2:07:44

Our objective ultimately is that they leave there and say, when can we play together next again?

2:07:49

Um we also have the volunteers who will be the ones to facilitate um the activities together, so the inclusion captains.

2:07:56

We also have a one-on-one aid volunteers that help to allow the parents to get to be hands-off and have that play date experience that they don't always get.

2:08:05

And other elements of the carnival include spaces like our personal care room.

2:08:09

So for those families who are not able to use the typical facilities, we have a space dedicated for them.

2:08:15

For those families that'll need sensory support, they'll need accessibility.

2:08:19

So as we know, Brayland's Way is only phase one of Bessie Estel.

2:08:23

And so, in doing and acknowledging that that's phase one, there are still some accessibility gaps.

2:08:29

So our partners at Lakeshore and NICPAT have come together and helped us to assess assess the accessibility, and what we've tried to do is um bridge the gaps that still exist there.

2:08:39

So we'll have accessible flooring present um on the outskirts of um Braylands Way, so that again, any all of the children.

2:08:46

So we have about 20 to 30 children that's gonna be present in wheelchairs, and so again, every activity is designed for them to be able to access it, and they need to do so through that accessible flooring.

2:08:56

Um, we'll also have a medical tent present.

2:08:59

We'll have a parent lounge.

2:09:01

So again, we're reintroducing equity into parenthood.

2:09:04

So when those parents receive that diagnosis, oftentimes a lot of uh our dreams kind of change.

2:09:10

And so what we're doing is in an inclusive play date, giving them the opportunity to finally be hands-off again to be off duty and really to watch their children enjoy as any other parent would when they're in um a play date.

2:09:22

We also will have a many resource fair, so we have about 10 organizations signed up to be able to um that are services of um families with uh disabilities.

2:09:32

Um, so we'll have them to be connected to resources as well.

2:09:36

So every element of our carnival is designed to be able to serve these families in a capacity that they're probably a lot of times overlooked.

2:09:44

Um, so we're being intentional about bringing them back into the community and not siloed into the disability community, but to one broad general community.

2:09:52

I believe that we are one people, and I believe that disability is a part of that, and so that's what we're doing with the Buddy Big Top.

2:10:00

We so far have 89 families directly in the Birmingham Metro area registered.

2:10:05

We have nine that are coming out from the outside of Birmingham, three from out of state, and then we also have three Spanish speaking families that'll be present as well.

2:10:13

So we're really excited, and we thank you for your support.

2:10:15

Thank you for the opportunity to host community events like this.

2:10:19

We would love to continue to partner and plug into existing events so that we can again continue to create spaces where these families are represented and recognized and accommodated for in the in the community in general.

2:10:30

Ms.

2:10:30

Mims, thank you so much.

2:10:32

Thank you so much.

2:10:33

Counselor Woods.

2:10:36

Uh yeah, thank you, Madam President.

2:10:38

Uh appreciate y'all being here today.

2:10:40

I had the opportunity to come to I got an invite to an event y'all did.

2:10:47

Earlier this year, but it was like Parents Night out, and uh, you know, specifically for people with kids that have special needs.

2:10:54

And it was like one of the the best events I've seen.

2:10:56

It was truly the first class.

2:10:58

I thought that um, you know, I can only I I think even as a parent, you're very cautious about where your kids are and who they're with, and then uh when your child does have a special need, you're even less willing to just leave them.

2:11:10

Um, and so the way y'all had the complete wraparound where their kids were uh taken care of, and they had you know the professionals on site needed to to care for them, and just the relief and relaxation that the parents were able to enjoy, and just had a uh really special curated night.

2:11:26

So I didn't necessarily know what I was showing up to, but I when I left, I was really blown away and uh truly am a supporter of what y'all are doing, and so we definitely want to amplify that and uh ensure that you know as many families as possible are able to take advantage of it.

2:11:40

So thank you for what you're doing.

2:11:42

Yes, thank you so much, and again, I'm so glad that um council Vasa pulled this so that we can have this opportunity to give you additional support.

2:11:51

I'm gonna tell you the way that I found out about the event was on social media, and so um marketing helps, and um thank you so much for the inclusivity that you're bringing with this event, and so often uh parents that have children with need and those without.

2:12:08

We have to create that buddy system.

2:12:11

So I thank you for giving that opportunity as well, and for all of the amenities that you're providing.

2:12:16

If you can just um for your next event, circulate something to all of us.

2:12:21

If you did, I apologize if you already did it and we uh didn't see it, but just to um allow us that opportunity to be able to support and pro Tim wants to add something.

2:12:32

Um thank you, madam president.

2:12:34

I'm joining the train with my other colleagues, and I'm gonna commit $500 as well.

2:12:38

All right, thank you.

2:12:39

I believe that amends that item to amend the make that motion to amend that.

2:12:43

So I make a motion to amend item 23.

2:12:45

The amendment.

2:12:47

We already have an amendment on the floor, so just amend the amendment.

2:12:50

Amend the amendment and add 500.

2:12:52

And 500.

2:12:52

Okay, thank you.

2:12:53

And that makes a total now of 7,000, correct?

2:12:56

Second.

2:12:57

Second.

2:12:58

There's been a second.

2:13:00

All right.

2:13:01

So there's been a motion and a second.

2:13:03

And so now, Mr.

2:13:04

Clerk, we don't have any other questions.

2:13:05

We're ready to consider.

2:13:07

We're gonna vote on the amendment first.

2:13:09

All right.

2:13:10

We have a motion and a second.

2:13:12

I already have it up.

2:13:13

So voting should be open for the amendment.

2:13:15

Thank you.

2:13:16

Um missing council member quinnes Alexander.

2:13:21

I all right.

2:13:22

Uh so the amendment passed, and I vote on the item as amended.

2:13:25

All right, so we've amended the item to include the additional funding, and so now we're ready to vote for the items.

2:13:31

Need us motion the second.

2:13:34

Some of second.

2:13:36

Okay.

2:13:37

Voting should be open right now.

2:13:45

All right, thank you very much.

2:13:47

Item 23 passes, and we look forward to success for this event.

2:13:52

Thank you so much.

2:13:53

Next item.

2:13:54

It should be item 28, which is on phase 10.

2:14:01

A resolution approving and authorizing the mayor to execute a community development block grant, critical repair program, uh sub-recipient agreement with Woodlawn United incorporated under the critical repair funding program to provide critical repair and rehabilitation assistance to eligible low and moderate income owner-occupied single family households located within the city limits to address urgent health safety, accessibility, and structural needs for a term of 13 months for an amount not to exceed 480,000.

2:14:33

Motion.

2:14:35

All right, we need a motion and a second.

2:14:40

All right, thank you.

2:14:41

This item was uh conserved for consent, and we allow uh councillor Vasa to pull from consent.

2:14:48

I think it's just to make a vote, correct?

2:14:50

Correct.

2:14:51

All right, abstain.

2:14:52

So no questions, we're ready to uh entertain the vote.

2:14:56

All right.

2:15:06

Absolutely.

2:15:07

All right.

2:15:07

That vote should be all right.

2:15:08

Thank you.

2:15:08

That item passes with one extension.

2:15:11

So item 28 passes.

2:15:13

Thank you.

2:15:13

Next item.

2:15:14

Should be item 47.

2:15:19

Item 47.

2:15:21

A resolution setting a public show calls hearing to consider the matter of revoking the business license issue to Berkeley Incorporated during business this nana funks at 708 29th Street, South Birmingham, Alabama, 35233.

2:15:35

Certain heal should be held at council's regular meeting in the council chambers, third floor in City Hall, Birmingham, Alabama on Tuesday, May 19th, 2026 at 9:30 a.m.

2:15:47

And we have uh change on as far as it's related to the hearing date.

2:15:52

It should be the 26th of May, uh, recommended by the chair of public safety.

2:16:00

Right.

2:16:05

We're setting the hearing.

2:16:06

We just said in the hearing.

2:16:08

All right.

2:16:09

Councillors, we're setting a hearing for a public show cause uh hearing to consider the matter of revoking a business license, and that date is being set for May 26, 2026.

2:16:21

There are no questions.

2:16:22

We're ready to entertain the vote for setting that hearing calls date.

2:16:26

Motion on that.

2:16:27

Now we need to.

2:16:28

I need somebody moving forward.

2:16:30

So move the item.

2:16:32

All right.

2:16:32

Uh voting should be open.

2:16:34

Thank you.

2:16:40

Council members may have the vote should be up.

2:16:42

All right, thank you.

2:16:43

So a public calls hearing has been set for May 26th to consider the matter of revoking the business license that's issued to the bus company doing business is nano funks.

2:16:55

That item passes.

2:16:56

Next item.

2:16:58

A resolution setting a public hearing June 9th, 2026 to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend the zoning district map of the city of Birmingham case number ZAC 2026-2 to change zone district boundaries from I-4 to Q1 to QI1 in order to construct a convenience store with a drive-thru filed by C have Severton LLC, the property owner, and the mic.

2:17:24

Uh the applicant for the property journal located at Saritan Drive North and situated in section 15 section quarter section one township 17 rank 3 West Birmingham 35207.

2:17:37

Motion please.

2:17:41

Motion.

2:17:42

Thank you.

2:17:44

All right.

2:17:45

All right, thank you.

2:17:46

Councillors, this is a resolution where we're setting a public hearing for June 9th to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend the zoning district map.

2:17:54

Any questions regarding setting that date?

2:17:58

Okay, we're ready for the vote.

2:18:00

Uh voting should be open.

2:18:10

And councillor Smith is up.

2:18:12

All right, that vote should be up.

2:18:13

All right, thank you, Councillors.

2:18:14

We've set that hearing date for June 9th, 2026.

2:18:19

Next item.

2:18:20

Uh that should be all of the regular items.

2:18:22

All right, that's it.

2:18:24

Thank you very much.

2:18:25

Counselors, at this time, we will entertain your updates for your districts.

2:18:31

Um, and if we could start, we do have please make note of an something we have following the adjournment.

2:18:42

Who wants to go first?

2:18:43

Councilor Smith.

2:18:49

Council Smith.

2:18:52

All right.

2:18:53

Well, good morning.

2:18:54

Um, a few announcements.

2:18:56

First, we have the spring into clean DA cleanup day this upcoming Saturday, May 9th.

2:19:01

That's gonna be at the crossplex.

2:19:03

Um, so we are asking residents from across district eight to come to the crossplex at 10 a.m.

2:19:09

so that we can um help to beautify our area.

2:19:14

Um, also it's been mentioned about the buddy Big Top Carnival that's taking place this Saturday, also.

2:19:19

Um, and then just as a reminder, parking rec is still conducting our um interest meetings on the park plan.

2:19:28

So we're asking that residents go to BHM Parks 2035.com to complete the survey.

2:19:37

Also, still those interest meetings are happening.

2:19:39

So the next one is tomorrow.

2:19:41

I'm sorry, this evening at the Hooper City Rec Center, and then on Thursday at 6 p.m.

2:19:48

at the Hawkins Park Rec Center.

2:19:50

Um, parking record is also still hiring for lifeguards, so you can call 205-2542189 for more information if you're interested in signing up to be a lot a lifeguard.

2:20:05

We have the park and rec board meeting tomorrow, Wednesday, May 6th at 9 a.m.

2:20:10

at Legion Field, and then the following neighborhood meetings over the next week.

2:20:14

Fairview is meeting this evening at 5 30 p.m.

2:20:17

via conference call.

2:20:18

Thomas is meeting at 6 30 p.m.

2:20:21

at the Thomas Gray St.

2:20:23

Thomas Church.

2:20:24

Tuxedo is meeting on Monday, May 5th at 5 p.m.

2:20:27

at the East Ansley Public Library.

2:20:29

Ansley Highlands is meeting on Monday, May 11th at 6 p.m.

2:20:33

at the Five Points Rest Branch Library.

2:20:38

Just want to say happy teacher appreciation week to all of our teachers for all that you do.

2:20:42

We know that the work is the work is great, but you make it look so easy, so we appreciate all that you do.

2:20:49

And then lastly, I just want to say thank you to VDOT and Power Company for working to restore the lights that we have along Warrior Road.

2:20:57

So super excited about that.

2:20:59

Nice and bright.

2:21:00

So thank you.

2:21:01

Thank you for helping to make that happen.

2:21:05

Thank you so much, Councillor Smith.

2:21:06

Councillor Gunn.

2:21:07

Thank you, Madam President.

2:21:08

These are my announcements for this week.

2:21:10

The UAB Live Help Smart Mobile Market will be in the Kingston community this Wednesday, May the 6th from 10 30 a.m.

2:21:17

to 12 30 p.m.

2:21:19

Parts and Rec will host another community meeting this Thursday starting at 6 p.m.

2:21:24

at the Don Hawkins Recreational Center.

2:21:27

Neighborhood Association meetings that are coming up.

2:21:30

Inglenook is Monday, May 11th at 5 30 p.m.

2:21:33

at the Ingle Nook Recreation Center.

2:21:35

Woodlawn is also Monday, May 11th at 6 p.m.

2:21:39

at the Willow Wood Recreation Center.

2:21:41

Roadbuck is Tuesday, May 12th at 6 30 p.m.

2:21:45

at the Birmingham East Precinct.

2:21:48

Kilo Springs is also Tuesday, May the 12th at 6 p.m.

2:21:52

at Smith Middle School, and then Pimfield Park is Tuesday, May 12th as well, 6 p.m.

2:21:58

at the Brownsville Heights Community Center.

2:22:00

And then my last announcement for today is I just want to congratulate the boys 4 by 100 meter relay team at Woodlawn High School.

2:22:08

They brought home the 6A champ for the state of Alabama.

2:22:11

So congratulations to them.

2:22:13

Congratulations.

2:22:14

Thank you so much.

2:22:15

Councillor Woods.

2:22:18

Thank you, Madam President.

2:22:19

Good morning.

2:22:20

A few announcements here quickly.

2:22:22

The Apple Valley Neighborhood Association will meet today at 6 30 p.m.

2:22:27

at the East Pension Valley Rec Center.

2:22:29

The Spring Lake Association Neighborhood Association will meet on Thursday, May 7th at 6 30 p.m.

2:22:35

That meeting is at the Huffman High School Library.

2:22:38

Echo Highlands will meet on Thursday, May 7th at 6 p.m.

2:22:42

Their meeting via Zoom.

2:22:44

And Robuck will meet on Monday, May 11th at 6 30 p.m.

2:22:48

at the East Police Precinct.

2:22:50

If anybody's interested in attending these meetings virtually, we have work with the neighborhoods to make sure that that is an option that is of interest to you.

2:22:59

Email BHM District 1 at gmail.com for login details.

2:23:07

Coming up, community improvement day.

2:23:09

Uh this Friday, May 8th, we're partnering with House Peral for our next community improvement day.

2:23:13

We'll be painting, doing some landscaping at a helm in District 1.

2:23:17

And so we've got all the tools, materials, we've got your snacks to keep you going.

2:23:22

Got your t-shirts there, and so uh just show up and volunteer a few hours can make a major impact.

2:23:28

And uh if you are interested in volunteering, uh email your name and phone number to District 1 Volunteer at HouseProud ATL.org.

2:23:40

District 1 Volunteer at HouseProud ATL.org.

2:23:45

Uh now we'll get you signed up and locked in.

2:23:47

Also, the next budget and finance committee meeting will be held on Monday, May 11th at 3 30 p.m.

2:23:53

in council chambers.

2:23:55

Uh please get all your submissions in uh by Wednesday, tomorrow, May 6th at noon.

2:24:00

Uh thank you very much.

2:24:04

Thank you.

2:24:04

Thank you so much, Councillor Quinn.

2:24:08

Thank you, Madam President.

2:24:09

I just want to remind folks that if you want any of this information and much much more, please contact my office and we can send you a digital packet that includes these announcements and lots of other useful information.

2:24:25

So this week coming up in District 5, we have several neighborhood association meetings.

2:24:30

East Lake and Forest Park meet tonight.

2:24:33

Wahoma meets on Thursday, Gate City and Oak Ridge Park will meet on Monday.

2:24:39

Uh for my fellow transportation infrastructure committee members.

2:24:45

We will have a meeting on Monday, May 11th at 2 p.m.

2:24:49

here in the council chambers.

2:24:51

Um if there are any other agenda items to submit, please contact Kimberly.phlips at Birmingham AL.gov.

2:25:00

Jones Valley Teaching Farm is going to have a fundraising picnic on May 30th from 4 to 7 p.m.

2:25:12

They're calling this picnic gather.

2:25:14

Last year it was Roots on the Ground, Roots in the Ground, something like that.

2:25:22

And tickets include a buffet.

2:25:28

That's going to be prepared by local chefs.

2:25:31

We're going to be doing line dancing and other family friendly activities.

2:25:37

Go to JVTF.org for more information and tickets.

2:25:44

Just also want to remind folks that the farmers markets have started back up.

2:25:51

So you have your options on Saturday either to go to East Lake Farmers Market at East Lake UMC.

2:26:03

And that one runs, you know, the full all the way into the fall.

2:26:10

And Pepper Place is also available.

2:26:15

And the Pepper Place Market runs 7 to 12 p.m.

2:26:21

And then finally, want to encourage people to participate in the city's Go BHM multimodal transportation plan.

2:26:30

You can find that on the city's website, Birmingham AL.gov backslash go bhm.

2:26:39

Thank you.

2:26:40

That concludes my announcements.

2:26:41

Thank you so much.

2:26:42

Councillor Basa.

2:26:45

Thank you, Madam President.

2:26:46

A few events.

2:26:47

We have coffee and conversations with our office this May 8th from 8 to 9 a.m.

2:26:53

at O'Henry's Coffee on Highland.

2:26:56

Snacks and coffee will be served.

2:26:59

We heard from the Wildflower Alliance, the Buddy Big Top Carnival again this May 9th, Saturday, 12 to 4 p.m.

2:27:05

Bessie's Cell Park.

2:27:07

Next Saturday, we have the Birmingham Folk Fest Saturday, May 16th, 11 a.m.

2:27:13

to 7 p.m.

2:27:14

at Avondale Park.

2:27:16

And then we are also accepting resumes for the zoning board of adjustment.

2:27:21

Resumes can be sent to District 3 at Birmingham AL.gov until May 18th.

2:27:28

Lastly, Forest Park Neighborhood Association meeting is tonight, May 5th at 6 30 p.m.

2:27:35

at the Affendale Library.

2:27:36

Thank you.

2:27:37

Thank you so much, Councillor Smithman.

2:27:39

Thank you, Madam President.

2:27:40

Happy Teachers Appreciation Week.

2:27:42

So all of our amazing teachers, thank you for your dedication, your passion, and the difference you make.

2:27:48

Also as reiterated, um mentioned earlier, Happy Nurses Appreciation Week 2.

2:27:53

As far as neighborhood meetings, Oakwood Place is today at 4 p.m.

2:27:57

at Harrison Park Recreation Center.

2:28:00

And then Mason City will meet today virtually at 4 30 p.m.

2:28:05

And then on Monday at 5 p.m.

2:28:06

at New Hope Baptist Church, West End Manor will meet.

2:28:10

As mentioned before, Nurtress having their fifth annual mental health day in partnership with the city of Birmingham this Friday at Land Park from 10 to 2.

2:28:19

Also, um, my colleague Council Gunn just reminded me about track accomplishments.

2:28:24

For Ramsey, the state runner up for 5A 400 meter.

2:28:32

Um place as well.

2:28:37

Then we had state champion for 5A and with the disc throwing thing.

2:28:44

Uh Christopher Lewis.

2:28:48

Anyways, um, and then the state champions.

2:28:55

Sorry, I'm looking on Instagram.

2:28:56

Four by uh 400 5A champions, uh, Ramsey High School as well, and that was with the boys.

2:29:02

Oh, and yeah.

2:29:03

And then the 200 meter was um Mr.

2:29:06

Williams, he was a 5A runner up, I think, as well.

2:29:10

So congratulations to Buffar Birmingham City Schools.

2:29:14

That's a really um big accomplishment.

2:29:16

I think, especially for Ramsey, because I know they have to travel to Lawson Fields actually every day to practice.

2:29:21

If you think about it, that's a lot to have to leave from school, drive all the way across town to practice, and they don't have lights out there, y'all.

2:29:29

So for about half of their practice time, they were in the dark.

2:29:32

Um, but just for them to make it this day is amazing.

2:29:35

So congratulations to them.

2:29:36

Also wishing a happy early Mother's Day to all the incredible mothers, but in particular my colleagues, Madam Pro Tim and Madam President, and to my mom and sister.

2:29:45

Thank you.

2:29:46

Thank you.

2:29:47

Councillor Williams.

2:29:50

Thank you, Madam President.

2:29:51

Economic Development Tourism Committee work session will be following this meeting at 11:30 in conference room DE.

2:29:57

So I'll see that end of the day as in a little bit.

2:30:00

And that is all I have.

2:30:01

Thank you.

2:30:02

Thank you.

2:30:02

Madam Pro Tim.

2:30:03

Thank you, Madam President.

2:30:04

Wylam Neighborhood Association meeting is tonight at 6 p.m.

2:30:07

at the Wylam Library.

2:30:08

It's probably already been stated by Councillor Smith.

2:30:11

Thomas Neighborhood Association meetings tonight at 6 30 at the Greater St.

2:30:14

Thomas Church, located at 152 First Street.

2:30:18

Civic Offlet Neighborhood Association will meet Wednesday, May the 6th at 5 30 at the Cipico Plant Community Room.

2:30:25

Sherman Heights neighborhood meeting will be on Monday, May the 11th at 6 p.m.

2:30:30

at the Morningstar Christian Church, North Birmingham also will meet on Monday, May the 11th at 6 p.m.

2:30:36

at the North Vermeum Library, and the next public safety meeting will be held on Tuesday, May the 12th, 1 p.m.

2:30:41

in the council chamber.

2:30:42

Please submit your agenda items by email no later than May the 6th, no later than 12 noon to Gregory Dodge Stanley at Birmingham AEL.gov.

2:30:51

Oh, shut up.

2:30:52

Leto at Birmingham AL.gov.

2:30:55

And as Council has stated happy Mother's Day to all the beautiful moms.

2:31:02

Thank you, thank you.

2:31:03

These are announcements for District 7.

2:31:06

Thank you, Councillor Pro Tim.

2:31:07

We have three neighborhood meetings that are coming up next Monday, May 11th.

2:31:12

That's the West Goldwire neighborhood.

2:31:13

They'll be meeting by conference call at 5 p.m.

2:31:16

The Powderly Neighborhood Association will meet at 5 30 at the Henry Crompton Rec Center and the Oxmore Valley neighborhood will meet at 6 p.m.

2:31:25

at the Oxmore Rec Center.

2:31:27

Has already been stated.

2:31:28

Do you want to uh just send a grateful thanks to all of the educators, administrators, teachers, school staff, just everyone who touches upon our children as we uh give accolades to um net teachers during this month of May.

2:31:46

I know that a lot of us have um opportunities where we're um spreading some love to our schools and our district, and so I thank each of you for doing that, and I'm also very grateful to the work that's done by the five schools in district seven.

2:31:59

So thank you all very much.

2:32:01

That concludes our council updates at this time, Mr.

2:32:05

Speaker.

2:32:05

We'll entertain this Mr.

2:32:07

Speaker, Mr.

2:32:08

Clerk will entertain the speaker's list.

2:32:10

Thank you, Savia.

2:32:15

Hello, sir, as you come forward.

2:32:17

You have three minutes.

2:32:18

Thank you very much.

2:32:18

Excuse me.

2:32:19

Hey, it took me seven years to get here.

2:32:22

So I done sweat it.

2:32:24

My underarms I'll be good.

2:32:25

All right, so listen.

2:32:29

I am who I am.

2:32:31

I am my feelings, I am my hustle, I am the hamsterdam.

2:32:35

Always coming to you live from the five, all points west, and you always rocking with the best.

2:32:41

I come today with a conceptual proposal plan, a land disposition request, and a weed abatement request because I am creating the Green Tea District.

2:32:56

It's been in motion for the last seven years, and I have for presentation.

2:33:02

So, Madam President, this is for you.

2:33:06

Uh I sent you an email last night.

2:33:12

But you can come on and send that to us because I don't want you to run out of the case.

2:33:14

Oh, oh no, but it's all in here, so I ain't really saying it's it's here.

2:33:18

Okay.

2:33:19

Uh this is for the mayor, and then this is for everybody else.

2:33:21

So I don't want to leave nobody out.

2:33:23

Just take what you can and pass it down.

2:33:26

So uh I own our own 2520 Warrior Road.

2:33:31

That's why I was tapping my hands.

2:33:32

That tree fell on the parcel that I'm asking y'all to give it to me for a dollar.

2:33:38

I will give you a lifetime, a lifetime community use covenant.

2:33:43

I will be building a dog park right there.

2:33:44

So it almost messed up my dog park.

2:33:46

Uh, it fell in front of the house that I bought in Texas last year, so it didn't damage that.

2:33:52

And they and then another one fell right in my alley.

2:33:54

So thank you for that.

2:33:55

City, we need to do something about them trees because they they're everywhere and they're poking out on the street.

2:34:00

I need y'all to go through this list and agree and vote and uh uh give me what I asked for so I can go ahead and turn our fair view into the green tea district.

2:34:13

Oh my bad.

2:34:14

My bad, my bad, my bad.

2:34:15

This is for the man.

2:34:16

I'll let you go ahead and go.

2:34:18

Yeah, thewesome.

2:34:20

I was gonna let you guys got you do it like that.

2:34:25

Yeah, so that's it.

2:34:28

That's that's that's that's my thing.

2:34:30

Um, y'all let me get those two parcels that I asked for for a dollar.

2:34:34

I'll turn around and give you a lifetime community use covenant.

2:34:37

I will build a dog park, I'll put a parking lot there in the other one.

2:34:40

We're gonna put two EV units in there.

2:34:42

I also put a proposal for the grant that I'm gonna be meeting for uh the development of the of the parking lot, but we're already in urban village time.

2:34:54

Y'all got three 31.8 million.

2:35:00

I need to get a piece of that so I can help develop my district, our district, and help fill in the West the Western plan that we got.

2:35:06

I'm that guy.

2:35:07

That's what I'm gonna do, and I'm gonna keep on doing it.

2:35:09

I need y'all help.

2:35:10

MJ without the team, y'all the team, we're gonna get a bunch of chips, man.

2:35:14

So that's all I can say.

2:35:16

All right.

2:35:18

Thank you.

2:35:19

Thank you so much.

2:35:20

We appreciate this.

2:35:20

Thank you.

2:35:21

I got time.

2:35:22

Any questions?

2:35:23

We just let it give us a time to read this and respond back.

2:35:26

Thank you so much, sir.

2:35:28

Appreciate it, appreciate it.

2:35:29

Yes.

2:35:29

Oh, oh, oh, oh, and just to top it off.

2:35:32

I created the B Hamstadam Live page last night.

2:35:35

All 99 cities, uh cities is in here.

2:35:38

While I do that, because Earth Wind Fire came in town, didn't nobody know.

2:35:42

And it made me say that.

2:35:43

And we have no, we have no Birmingham being Amsterdam at the same news.

2:35:50

So I created that.

2:35:51

So I need all y'all.

2:35:52

We thank you.

2:35:53

Thank you, sir.

2:35:54

Thank y'all.

2:35:55

Appreciate it.

2:35:56

Uh we want to hear something.

2:35:58

We're gonna hear something, y'all.

2:35:59

We'll be getting back to you.

2:36:00

Thank you.

2:36:01

Appreciate you.

2:36:02

All right.

2:36:03

Next Cynthia Turner.

2:36:09

Okay, Miss Turner, as you come forward, you have three minutes, and I think you want to talk about some ditch issues.

2:36:15

Thank you.

2:36:16

Good morning.

2:36:17

Good morning, everyone.

2:36:19

Um guess the mayor's office counsel for the near one.

2:36:23

Um this issue is basically the same, some different faces, but unfortunately, some same problems that I'm having.

2:36:32

Um I've submitted three case numbers over the years, and one was just closed, and I came here about six months ago and about a year ago about the problem that was supposed to be solved, and they closed the case number.

2:36:47

I don't know why they keep closing the case number without the work being done.

2:36:50

They put on there that the work is completed.

2:36:53

I spoke with numerous people that's from Joe, I'm sorry, Joseph Yates, when he was over the flood thing management program, and now as the public director, I spoke to my council, I spoke to anybody, anybody that comes out there, they said they're going to fix it.

2:37:11

They come out there, they spray it.

2:37:13

And I told them do not spray it because the chemicals is round up and round up causes cancer, and I've had cancer before.

2:37:19

I do not want anything, cancer type items on my property.

2:37:24

And today, as I was here getting ready to leave, they was out there spraying trying to spray again.

2:37:28

I told them do not spray.

2:37:30

I'm trying to see what is the remedy because they've been told me they were gonna come out there with a bulldozer and fix the problem.

2:37:36

And I've getting emails from people saying they're gonna fix it.

2:37:40

They don't fix it, they close the cases, and I have to come back down here.

2:37:43

I don't like coming down here.

2:37:44

I have other things to do.

2:37:46

What is the what is the remedy?

2:37:48

Because I know half of you have seen me numerous times.

2:37:50

Well, there's a few new faces, but a lot of you have seen me numerous times.

2:37:54

I hear all these premises and basically no action.

2:37:58

And I've spoken to the mayor.

2:38:00

I've sent email to the mayor's office.

2:38:03

Published work to everyone.

2:38:05

And they just said they're gonna do it and nothing happens.

2:38:08

But yet, I don't want I don't want my house to flood again because that's what happened before.

2:38:12

My house flooded, I had mold.

2:38:14

I had to redo my whole house.

2:38:17

And I'm just trying to prevent that from happening.

2:38:20

I shouldn't have to come down here to say this over and over and over again.

2:38:24

Y'all say y'all got extra money to fix it.

2:38:26

Y'all say y'all gotta y'all have a bulldozer.

2:38:29

And when I call it, we have a bulldozer, but it's it's gonna take a while to get it.

2:38:32

But how long are they building the bulldozer or something?

2:38:36

Inch by inch.

2:38:37

Because it doesn't take that long to get someone over here to fix the problem.

2:38:41

Right.

2:38:41

Thank you, Miss Turner, for um bringing this issue before us.

2:38:45

This is something that we would have to refer over to our administration team.

2:38:49

I believe uh been in contact with them or administration will be able to get in contact with you.

2:38:54

Is that correct, Chief?

2:38:56

Yes, that's right.

2:38:57

So um, Madam President, members of the council, so our staff is in touch with Ms.

2:39:02

Turner.

2:39:03

A couple of things that they've noted, and she said they are working to either spray or cut.

2:39:08

I know that there's been communication with them, but it's also coordination between Center Point and Jefferson County.

2:39:14

So in Jefferson County has sent me an email, they have completed their work.

2:39:19

I've spoken to the person over that.

2:39:22

And I have an email from them.

2:39:23

I don't know if you do, but I do.

2:39:25

That's why I did not come until I got that from them.

2:39:27

So that's not all right.

2:39:30

Thank you, Ms.

2:39:30

Turner.

2:39:31

We'll continue follow-up.

2:39:32

We'll continue to ask uh administration to follow with you.

2:39:35

Thank you.

2:39:36

Thank you.

2:39:36

Thank you.

2:39:38

Any other speakers, Mr.

2:39:40

Clerk?

2:39:40

All right, at this time, we will um thank our staff who were on duty today, our officers on duty, Officer Pinkert, Officer Terrant, and our fire inspectors on duty, Inspectors Snow and Griggs.

2:39:55

At this time, we'll entertain a motion for adjournment.

2:39:58

Some of it.

2:40:00

Thank you so much.

2:40:01

And I'd be remiss before I hit the gap if I didn't say happy Mother's Day to all the mothers present.

2:40:07

Thank you all very much.

2:40:08

We are adjourned.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Miscellaneous████████████████████20%
Zoning Regulation██████████████14%
Procedural███████████11%
Public Engagement██████6%
Public Safety██████6%
Health Awareness█████5%
Community Engagement█████5%
Parks and Recreation█████5%
Historic Preservation████4%
Summary of Proceedings

Birmingham City Council Meeting - May 5, 2026

The Birmingham City Council convened on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 9:37 AM. The meeting included an invocation, pledge of allegiance, roll call, and approval of minutes from January 6–27, 2026. Mayor Randall Woodfin delivered communications on smoke alarm safety and introduced several proclamations recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month, Small Business Week, Historic Preservation Month, Lupus Awareness Month, and Nurses Week. The Council approved consent agenda items with amendments, debated a zoning change for a mixed-use development, passed an ordinance strengthening safety requirements for entertainment venues, and set public hearings for a zoning case and a business license revocation.

Consent Calendar

  • Approved minutes from January 6–27, 2026.
  • Consent agenda items approved with amendments: item 15 (total amount adjusted to $15,000, adding $10,000 from District 5, surplus fund 103); item 19 (strike “Jefferson County,” insert “districts five and nine”); item 23 (strike zoning references, add funding from Districts 6 and 7); item 31 (funding source corrected to DOT 047 CP).
  • Items removed from consent by councilmembers: items 23, 28, and 20 (the latter pulled by Councilor Gunn for discussion).

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Paul Gundenby (President, South Side Neighborhood Association) opposed the zoning change (Item 2) for a mixed-use hotel/condo project at 1240 22nd Street South, citing traffic congestion, lack of walkability, and an oversupply of luxury apartments and retail vacancies in the area.
  • Public Speaker (Hamsterdam) proposed a land disposition request for two parcels on Warrior Road at $1 each, with a lifetime community use covenant, to build a dog park, parking lot, and EV charging stations, as part of a “Green Tea District” concept.
  • Cynthia Turner complained about repeated flooding and ditch maintenance issues on her property, stating that cases were closed without work being completed and that spraying chemicals (Roundup) was used despite her health concerns. Mayor’s office acknowledged the issue and pledged follow-up.

Discussion Items

  • Item 1 (ZAC 2026-2) – Ordinance to rezone property at 101 Drive North from I-4 to QI1 for a convenience store with drive-thru. Withdrawn by staff due to a legal description error; a companion item (Item 48) was set for a future public hearing.
  • Item 2 (ZAC 2025-8) – Ordinance to rezone 1240 22nd Street South from R6 (multiple dwelling) to MUM (mixed-use medium) for a mixed-use building (hotel and condominiums, approximately 124,000 square feet, 125 feet tall). Staff report noted neighborhood votes: Redmont Park (4 for, 23 against); Highland Park (20 for, 4 against). Zoning Advisory Committee and Planning & Zoning Committee both recommended approval (4-0). Applicant argued the project addresses a void in high-end hospitality and will include public infrastructure improvements. Council approved the rezoning without Q conditions; a height variance will be sought from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
  • Item 14 – Ordinance to amend the “fail-safe” ordinance (Chapter 10, Article C, Title 12) requiring safety plans for entertainment establishments and clubs. Changes include definitions for late-night establishments and serious incidents, training requirements, site plan details, camera footage retention (30 days), and public record provisions. Councilor O’Quinn praised the ordinance for tightening accountability. Passed unanimously.
  • Item 20 – Resolution authorizing a grant agreement with the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham ($240,394.44) for the North Side Spark Project: traffic calming and gateways in Norwood, sidewalk repairs in Druid Hills and Fountain Heights, funded by an ALDOT lawsuit settlement. Councilor Gunn requested details; staff confirmed speed cushions and gateway pillars in Norwood, and sidewalk repairs in the other neighborhoods. Approved.
  • Item 23 – Resolution authorizing an agreement with Wildflower Alliance ($6,500 from Districts 1 and 3, plus $500 each from Districts 6 and 7 as amended) for community support for parents of children with disabilities. Executive Director Latoya Mims described the upcoming Buddy Big Top Carnival (May 9, 2026, at Bessie Estell Park), an inclusive event with adapted activities, sensory supports, and resource fair. Councilor Woods and Council President Alexander praised the initiative. Approved as amended.
  • Item 28 – Resolution authorizing a CDBG Critical Repair Program sub-recipient agreement with Woodlawn United Incorporated ($480,000) for rehabilitation of low-income owner-occupied homes. Passed with one abstention (Councilor Vasa).
  • Item 47 – Resolution setting a public show-cause hearing to consider revoking the business license of Berkeley Inc. (doing business as Nana Funks) at 708 29th Street South. Hearing date changed from May 19 to May 26, 2026, per the Public Safety Committee chair. Approved.
  • Item 48 – Resolution setting a public hearing for June 9, 2026, to consider the rezone of property at 101 Drive North (ZAC 2026-2). Approved.

Key Outcomes

  • Zoning change approved (Item 2): Rezone 1240 22nd Street South from R6 to MUM (mixed-use medium) without Q conditions. The applicant must seek a height variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
  • Safety plan ordinance passed (Item 14): Strengthened requirements for entertainment establishments, including late-night venues, with mandatory safety plans, camera retention, and training.
  • Grants and agreements approved: Items 20 and 23 funded community projects; Item 28 authorized CDBG critical repair funds.
  • Public hearings set: Show-cause hearing for Berkeley Inc. (May 26, 2026) and public hearing for ZAC 2026-2 (June 9, 2026).
  • Council updates: Multiple neighborhood meetings, Parks and Rec planning sessions, and congratulations to Birmingham City Schools track teams announced.

Meeting Transcript

Well, I wore my hair short before, but it's probably a little boring. Yeah, you look more than two. I don't think it's no one. He's such a mean thing, such an amazing purple name. You know, this is such a great guy. And I'm so glad they're injured. Yeah, and so when we're saying shortcuts afterwards, and then I'll try to dish it for private practice, but he could have found all the things that I needed to try and dish it out. I was on the instant supervisor and mentors. He didn't see his own. He was on Facebook for a while, so he was able to keep up with what I was doing for a while. And I talked to Janita, she still built me out. She doesn't work for my husband. Yeah, yes, that was for you a part during the church. That was definitely the last change. And sometimes changes. Where did I make it? Okay, yeah, I'm familiar. Wow. Okay, yeah, they have a huge house. But the water, yes. I know. And then they have the little train say that either the Christmas bill. She would put it back in summer. She's still doing that. How often do you see the I just almost miss her amazing life? So I just had your sister. She's a great VA, but she works for my bees. She's called so she's the outside. She reminds me of when I was at the Lord, you know, she seems really she had a really great work in a great personality. She was like, Yes, I think I think I think it's your hunting. Yeah, it is this I think she's a man's time to line up the lineup and the universal ball again. Yes, we're gonna see. Oh my god. Okay. Well thanks for asking you. Good morning. How are you doing? These are some about our first. Yeah. June. Oh, so my dear resemblance. I go back in the case. You have made me five. You don't like it. Yes, yes. So that's the good. Yeah. From our group. Yeah. I think which are working.

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